The Hirakud Dam Project, located on the Mahanadi River in Odisha, India, is one of the largest multipurpose river valley projects in the country. Built between 1948 and 1957, this engineering marvel stands as a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance.
The primary objective of the project was to control the Mahanadi River and prevent devastating floods that had wreaked havoc on the surrounding areas for centuries. However, the project also aimed to generate hydroelectric power, facilitate irrigation, and improve navigation.
Spanning over an area of 347 square miles, the Hirakud Dam is an architectural wonder. It has a total length of about 16 miles and an average height of 200 feet. The dam created an enormous reservoir called Hirakud Lake, which spreads across 743 square miles and is one of the largest artificial lakes in Asia.
One of the most significant achievements of the project is its contribution to agricultural development in the region. The dam has a robust irrigation system that provides water to over 1.2 million hectares of farmland, boosting agricultural productivity and improving the living conditions of thousands of farmers.
Furthermore, the Hirakud Dam generates a substantial amount of hydroelectric power. The power generated by the dam has been instrumental in transforming the rural landscape by providing electricity to numerous villages and industries in the area.
Overall, the Hirakud Dam Project is a remarkable feat of engineering that has brought immense benefits to the region. It continues to play a vital role in flood control, irrigation, power generation, and transportation. With its significant impact on the socio-economic development of the surrounding areas, the Hirakud Dam Project remains a symbol of progress and resilience.
Books Info
| Books name | Hirakud Dam Project |
| Author | NA |
| No Of pages | 10 |
| Publisher | NA |
| Publication | 1957 |
| Printed At | NA |
| Distributor | NA |