Let’s examine six of India's largest dams, each a testament to the nation’s engineering prowess.
1. Tehri Dam (Uttarakhand)
Height and Features:
Tehri Dam, standing at a staggering 260.5 meters, is the tallest dam in India. Constructed on the Bhagirathi River, it’s also one of the tallest in the world.
Uses:
The dam generates hydroelectricity, supports irrigation, and provides water to numerous towns and cities.
Must-See Experience:
The panoramic view of the reservoir surrounded by mountains is breathtaking for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
2. Hirakud Dam (Odisha)
Length and Features:
Spanning 25.8 kilometers, Hirakud Dam on the Mahanadi River is the longest earthen dam in the world.
This dam plays a crucial role in eastern India's flood control, irrigation, and power generation.
Fun Fact:
The dam offers picturesque viewpoints like Gandhi Minar and Nehru Minar.
Largest Dams in India
Video by Explore India
3. Bhakra Nangal Dam (Himachal Pradesh & Punjab)
Height and Features:
Towering at 226 meters, Bhakra Dam is one of India’s largest gravity dams, built on the Sutlej River.
Uses:
It provides hydroelectric power, irrigation, and drinking water while helping control floods.
Tourist Highlight:
The reservoir, known as Gobind Sagar Lake, is perfect for boating and fishing activities.
4. Sardar Sarovar Dam (Gujarat)
Specifications:
This 163-meter dam on the Narmada River is one of the largest in terms of water storage and irrigation capacity.
Uses:
It provides drinking water, irrigation, and electricity to multiple states, including Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh.
Don’t Miss:
The Statue of Unity nearby, the tallest statue in the world, makes this area a major tourist destination.
5. Nagarjuna Sagar Dam (Telangana)
Specifications:
Built across the Krishna River, this dam stands at 124 meters and has a total length of 1.6 kilometers.
Uses:
It supports irrigation and hydroelectric power generation, benefiting agricultural lands in the region.
Tourist Attraction:
The serene reservoir is a hub for picnics and scenic boat rides.
6. Indira Sagar Dam (Madhya Pradesh)
Specifications:
This dam on the Narmada River is 92 meters high and boasts the largest water storage capacity in India.
Uses:
It generates hydroelectric power and provides irrigation facilities to vast agricultural lands.
Ideal For:
Photography enthusiasts will love the tranquil views of the expansive reservoir.
These six dams are more than just water management structures—they are lifelines for agriculture, energy, and urban needs. Whether you're an admirer of engineering or a nature lover seeking serene landscapes, India’s largest dams are worth exploring. Pack your bags and visit these awe-inspiring marvels that hold the key to the nation’s development and sustainability!