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List of Major Dams in India Type, Roles and State Wise List 2023

Madhavi Gaur July 21, 2023 05:58 25883 0

List of Major Dams in India Type, Roles and State Wise List 2023

List of Major Dams in India

Dams in India play a significant role in India’s pursuit of sustainable development and resource management. As one of the world’s most populous nations, India faces the dual challenge of meeting the growing energy demands of its people while ensuring efficient water management for agricultural and industrial purposes. Dams provide a crucial solution to these challenges, serving as reservoirs of water and sources of hydroelectric power. In this article, we will have a look at the List of Major Dams in India.

India is home to numerous dams, which play a crucial role in the country’s water management, irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and flood control. In this article we will have a look at the Major Dams in India.

What is a Dam?

Dams serve as barriers that impede the natural flow of water, leading to the formation of reservoirs. One of the primary purposes of constructing dams is to harness the power of water to generate electricity, a form of energy called hydroelectricity.

In addition to electricity generation, the reservoirs created by dams offer various benefits. They help control and mitigate the occurrence of floods by regulating the flow of water. These reservoirs also serve as vital water sources for activities like irrigation, supplying water for human consumption, industrial usage, aquaculture, and facilitating navigation along waterways. The storage capacity provided by dams ensures a steady and reliable water supply, supporting diverse sectors and contributing to the socio-economic development of the regions they serve.

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Types of Dams in India

Following are the type of Dams in India:

1. Arch Dam: An arch dam is a curved concrete structure designed to withstand the pressure of water by utilizing the arch shape. It is suitable for narrow canyons or gorges with stable rock walls.

2. Gravity Dam: Gravity dams are made of concrete or stone masonry and rely on their weight to resist the force of water. Each section of the dam is self-supporting and stable.

3. Arch-Gravity Dam: This type of dam combines the features of an arch dam and a gravity dam. It curves upstream, directing water pressure against the canyon walls and reducing lateral forces on the dam.

4. Barrages: Barrages are low-head diversion dams equipped with large gates to control the flow of water. They are used to stabilize river water levels upstream for irrigation and other purposes.

5. Embankment Dams: An embankment dam is a large artificial structure built by compacting soil, sand, clay, or rock. It has a semi-pervious surface and a dense, impermeable core.

6. Rock-Fill Dams: Rock-fill dams are constructed by compacting granular earth with large particles. The rocks provide stability and drainage capabilities.

7. Concrete-face Rock-Fill Dams: These dams combine rock-fill materials with concrete slabs on the upstream face. The concrete layer prevents leakage and adds structural strength.

8. Earth-Fill Dams: Earth-fill dams, also known as earthen dams, are constructed by compacting well-compacted earth materials. They may include a drain layer to collect seepage water.

Role of Dams in India

Dams play a crucial role in India’s water management and development. They have significant benefits, including:

1. Water Supply: Major dams provide a reliable source of water for domestic, industrial, and irrigation purposes. The reservoirs store water during the monsoon season and release it during dry periods, ensuring a steady supply for various needs.

2. Hydroelectric Power: Many of the major dams in India are equipped with hydroelectric power stations. These dams harness the power of flowing water to generate electricity, contributing to the country’s energy needs and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

3. River Navigation: Dams facilitate river navigation by regulating water flow and maintaining navigable channels. They improve transportation, allowing boats and ships to navigate inland waterways efficiently, enhancing connectivity and trade.

4. Recreation: The reservoirs created by major dams offer recreational opportunities such as fishing and boating. These water bodies serve as popular tourist destinations, attracting visitors and boosting local economies.

5. Flood Control: Dams play a vital role in flood control by storing excess water during heavy rainfall and releasing it gradually. This helps prevent sudden surges and reduces the risk of flooding in downstream areas, safeguarding lives and property.

India is home to numerous major dams, each contributing to water resource management, electricity generation, and overall development. These dams have transformed the landscape and provided various benefits to the people and the environment.

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List of Major Dams in India:

Here is a list of major dams in India, along with a brief description of their history and importance:

1. Nagarjuna Sagar Dam (Andhra Pradesh): Built on the Krishna River, it is one of the largest dams in India. It was constructed in 1967 and plays a crucial role in irrigation, power generation, and flood control.

List of Major Dams in India
Nagarjuna Sagar Dam (Andhra Pradesh)

2. Sardar Sarovar Dam (Gujarat): Located on the Narmada River, this dam is a major source of water for irrigation and drinking purposes in Gujarat. It has been a subject of controversy due to its environmental and social impact on the displaced communities.

 

 

List of Major Dams in India
Sardar Sarovar Dam (Gujarat)

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3. Bhakra Dam (Himachal Pradesh): Constructed on the Sutlej River, Bhakra Dam is one of the highest gravity dams in the world. It provides irrigation water to several states and generates hydroelectric power.

List of Major Dams in India
Bhakra Dam (Himachal Pradesh)

4. Idukki Dam (Kerala): Situated in the high ranges of the Western Ghats, Idukki Dam is a double curvature arch dam. It plays a significant role in the production of hydroelectric power and water storage for irrigation.

List of Major Dams in India
Idukki Dam (Kerala)

 

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5. Tehri Dam (Uttarakhand): Built on the Bhagirathi River, Tehri Dam is one of the tallest dams in India. It provides water for irrigation, generates hydroelectric power, and serves as a reservoir for drinking water supply.

List of Major Dams in India
Tehri Dam (Uttarakhand)

6. Hirakud Dam (Odisha): Constructed on the Mahanadi River, Hirakud Dam is the longest major earthen dam in the world. It helps in flood control, irrigation, power generation, and navigation.

List of Major Dams in India
Hirakud Dam (Odisha)

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7. Koyna Dam (Maharashtra): Located in the Koyna Nagar of Maharashtra, Koyna Dam is a crucial hydroelectric project. It is built on the Koyna River and has contributed significantly to power generation in the state.

List of Major Dams in India
Koyna Dam (Maharashtra)

8. Mettur Dam (Tamil Nadu): Situated on the Cauvery River, Mettur Dam is a vital water resource for irrigation in the delta region of Tamil Nadu. It also supplies drinking water to nearby towns and generates hydroelectric power.

List of Major Dams in India
Mettur Dam (Tamil Nadu)

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9. Rihand Dam (Uttar Pradesh): Constructed on the Rihand River, Rihand Dam is the largest dam in Uttar Pradesh. It provides irrigation water, generates hydroelectric power, and helps regulate water flow in the region.

List of Major Dams in India
Rihand Dam (Uttar Pradesh)

10. Indira Sagar Dam (Madhya Pradesh): Located on the Narmada River, Indira Sagar Dam is one of the largest reservoirs in India. It supports irrigation, power generation, and provides drinking water to nearby areas.

List of Major Dams in India
Indira Sagar Dam (Madhya Pradesh)

These are just a few examples of major dams in India. Each dam has its own unique history and serves various purposes such as irrigation, power generation, flood control, and water storage, contributing significantly to the development and progress of the respective regions.

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State-wise list of Major Dams in India

Here is a list of major dams in India, state-wise:

List of Major Dams in India in Andhra Pradesh

  • Nagarjuna Sagar Dam
  • Srisailam Dam
  • Pulichintala Dam
  • Somasila Dam
  • Prakasam Barrage

List of Major Dams in India in Arunachal Pradesh

  • Subansiri Lower Dam
  • Dibang Dam
  • Ranganadi Dam
  • Kameng Dam

List of Major Dams in India in Assam

  • Karbi Langpi Dam
  • Kopili Dam
  • Subansiri Dam

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List of Major Dams in India in Bihar

  • Koshi Barrage
  • Farakka Barrage
  • Supaul Barrage
  • Bagmati Barrage

List of Major Dams in India in Chhattisgarh

  • Indravati Dam
  • Hasdeo Bango Dam
  • Dudhawa Dam
  • Murrum Silli Dam

List of Major Dams in India in Gujarat

  • Sardar Sarovar Dam
  • Ukai Dam
  • Dantiwada Dam
  • Kadana Dam
  • Dharoi Dam

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List of Major Dams in India in Himachal Pradesh

  • Bhakra Dam
  • Pandoh Dam
  • Chamera Dam
  • Nathpa Jhakri Dam
  • Pong Dam

List of Major Dams in India in Jammu and Kashmir

  • Baglihar Dam
  • Salal Dam
  • Uri-II Dam
  • Dulhasti Dam

List of Major Dams in India in Karnataka

  • Almatti Dam
  • Tungabhadra Dam
  • Krishnarajasagar Dam
  • Linganamakki Dam
  • Supa Dam

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List of Major Dams in India in Kerala

  • Idukki Dam
  • Mullaperiyar Dam
  • Malampuzha Dam
  • Periyar Dam

List of Major Dams in India in Madhya Pradesh

  • Bargi Dam
  • Indira Sagar Dam
  • Omkareshwar Dam
  • Tawa Dam
  • Gandhi Sagar Dam

List of Major Dams in India in Maharashtra

  • Koyna Dam
  • Jayakwadi Dam
  • Bhandardara Dam
  • Wilson Dam
  • Vaitarna Dam

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List of Major Dams in India in Odisha

  • Hirakud Dam
  • Rengali Dam
  • Upper Kolab Dam
  • Mandira Dam
  • Balimela Dam

List of Major Dams in India in Punjab

  • Bhakra Dam
  • Ranjit Sagar Dam
  • Harike Barrage
  • Hussainiwala Barrage

List of Major Dams in India in Rajasthan

  • Rana Pratap Sagar Dam
  • Jawai Dam
  • Mahi Dam
  • Bisalpur Dam

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List of Major Dams in India in Tamil Nadu

  • Mettur Dam
  • Mullaperiyar Dam (shared with Kerala)
  • Vaigai Dam
  • Parambikulam Aliyar Project (PAP) Dam (shared with Kerala)

List of Major Dams in India in Telangana

  • Nagarjuna Sagar Dam (shared with Andhra Pradesh)
  • Srisailam Dam (shared with Andhra Pradesh)
  • Sriram Sagar Dam
  • Singur Dam
  • Lower Manair Dam

List of Major Dams in India in Uttar Pradesh

  • Tehri Dam
  • Rihand Dam
  • Matatila Dam
  • Kanpur Barrage
  • Obra Dam

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List of Major Dams in India in Uttarakhand

  • Tehri Dam
  • Ramganga Dam
  • Dharasu Dam
  • Maneri Dam

List of Major Dams in India in West Bengal

  • Farakka Barrage (shared with Bihar)
  • Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) Dams
      1. Maithon Dam
      2. Panchet Dam
      3. Tilaiya Dam
      4. Konar Dam

List of Major Dams in India: FAQs

Ques: How many major dams are in India?

Ans: India presently has a total of 5,334 dams, and among them, 447 hold special significance. Dams are important constructions as they are designed to impound water by blocking rivers or streams.

Ques: Which is the top 10 biggest dam in India?

Ans: The top 10 largest dams in India are as follows:

  1. Tehri Dam (Uttarakhand) – Height: 260.5 meters
  2. Lakhwar Dam (Uttarakhand) – Height: 204 meters
  3. Idukki Dam (Kerala) – Height: 168.91 meters
  4. Bhakra Nangal Dam (Himachal Pradesh) – Height: 226 meters
  5. Nagarjuna Sagar Dam (Telangana/Andhra Pradesh) – Height: 124 meters
  6. Sardar Sarovar Dam (Gujarat) – Height: 163 meters
  7. Hirakud Dam (Odisha) – Height: 60.96 meters
  8. Indira Sagar Dam (Madhya Pradesh) – Height: 92 meters
  9. Mettur Dam (Tamil Nadu) – Height: 120 feet
  10. Almatti Dam (Karnataka) – Height: 519.60 meters

Ques: Which is the 5 biggest dam in India?

Ans: The five largest dams in India were:

  1. Tehri Dam
  2. Bhakra Nangal Dam
  3. Sardar Sarovar Dam
  4. Hirakud Dam
  5. Nagarjuna Sagar Dam

Ques: Which is largest dam India?

Ans: Bhakra dam, situated on the Sutlej River in Himachal Pradesh, is a substantial gravity dam. It holds the distinction of being India’s largest dam and the second largest in Asia, towering at a height of 225 meters. The reservoir it creates, named “Gobind Sagar Lake,” ranks as India’s second largest reservoir, following the Indira Sagar dam.

Ques: Which is the oldest dam in India?

Ans: The Kallanai (also known as Grand Anicut) is considered to be the oldest dam in India. It is located on the Kaveri River in the state of Tamil Nadu. The Kallanai dam was built during the reign of the Chola dynasty king Karikalan around the 2nd century CE. It was constructed to divert water from the Kaveri River for irrigation purposes and remains functional to this day, making it one of the oldest water-regulation structures in the world.

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