India is home to some of the most impressive and massive dams in the world, playing a crucial role in the country’s agricultural, industrial, and energy sectors.
These dams not only support irrigation for vast areas of farmland but also generate hydroelectric power, provide drinking water to millions, and help control devastating floods.
Built across India’s major rivers, these engineering marvels are essential for water management and the economy.
In this section, we will explore the top 10 biggest dams in India, ranked by their height and water capacity, highlighting their significance in terms of utility and regional development.
What is the Importance of Dams in India?
Dams in India play a vital role in sustaining the country’s agricultural and industrial growth. They serve as the backbone of irrigation systems, providing water to vast tracts of farmland. This is especially important in arid regions where rainfall is erratic.
Apart from irrigation, dams contribute to hydroelectric power generation, supplying clean energy to millions of people.
They also help in flood control, mitigating the risk of natural disasters in vulnerable areas. Dams are crucial for ensuring a reliable drinking water supply to cities and towns across the country.
Moreover, they create reservoirs that support fisheries and tourism, boosting local economies. Dams have become symbols of engineering excellence, contributing to India’s development and infrastructure.
Which is the Tallest Dam in India?
The tallest dam in India is the Tehri Dam, located in Uttarakhand. This engineering marvel is known for its towering height and its significant role in hydroelectric power generation.
Built on the Bhagirathi River, the dam contributes to flood control, irrigation, and supplying drinking water. Its height allows for a large reservoir, which stores massive quantities of water used in agriculture and power generation.
The height of the dam is not only an indicator of its scale but also of its ability to generate hydroelectric power, supplying electricity to regions of northern India.
The Tehri Dam has faced challenges due to its location in a seismic zone, but it stands as a testimony to modern engineering.
Which Dam in India Has the Largest Water Capacity?
The Bhakra Nangal Dam, located in Himachal Pradesh, holds the distinction of having the largest water storage capacity in India.
This dam, constructed on the Sutlej River, plays a critical role in water conservation and distribution, particularly for irrigation in the states of Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan.
The massive reservoir created by the dam, known as the Gobind Sagar, stores immense quantities of water, which is used for irrigation and drinking purposes.
Its large water capacity also helps in flood control, preventing large-scale disasters during the monsoon season.
Bhakra Nangal is not just a storage giant but a critical lifeline for agriculture in northern India.
How Do Dams Contribute to Hydroelectric Power in India?
Dams are essential contributors to India’s hydroelectric power production, offering a renewable source of energy.
By harnessing the power of flowing water, dams like Tehri, Bhakra Nangal, and Sardar Sarovar generate substantial amounts of electricity.
This energy is not only clean but also reduces the dependence on fossil fuels, contributing to India’s goal of sustainable development.
Hydroelectric power is particularly beneficial in areas with large rivers and heavy rainfall, where the energy potential is immense.
These dams play a dual role, providing power to millions while also managing irrigation and water supply systems. Hydroelectric dams are central to India’s strategy of achieving energy security.
What Are the Environmental Impacts of Large Dams in India?
While large dams in India contribute to economic growth, they also have environmental impacts. The construction of dams often leads to the displacement of local communities, as vast areas of land are submerged to create reservoirs.
This can disrupt ecosystems, affecting wildlife and plant species in the region. Dams also alter the natural flow of rivers, which can lead to reduced fish populations and affect water quality downstream.
Furthermore, the buildup of silt in reservoirs over time can reduce their water storage capacity.
Some large dams are located in seismic zones, posing additional risks. Despite these challenges, India has been working on mitigating environmental concerns through improved dam management and ecological rehabilitation.
How Many Large Dams Are There in India?
India is home to over 5,200 large dams, making it one of the countries with the highest number of dams in the world. These dams serve various purposes, from irrigation and hydroelectric power generation to flood control and water supply.
States like Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh have the highest concentration of large dams. Many of these dams are critical for the agricultural sector, providing water to vast areas of farmland.
A number of India’s large dams were built post-independence as part of national efforts to modernize infrastructure. These dams collectively hold significant importance for India’s water management and energy production.
Top 10 Biggest Dams in India
1. Tehri Dam
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The Tehri Dam is the tallest dam in India, located on the Bhagirathi River in Uttarakhand. This impressive dam plays a critical role in flood control, irrigation, drinking water supply, and power generation.
Tehri Dam is part of the Tehri Hydro Development Corporation project, generating electricity for millions. Its construction began in the 1970s and was completed in 2006, involving technical challenges due to its location in a seismic zone.
The reservoir, known as the Tehri Lake, has a massive storage capacity, making it essential for water management in northern India.
Tehri Dam Details
| Attribute | Details |
| Dam Name | Tehri Dam |
| Height | 260.5 meters (855 feet) |
| Water Capacity | 3,540 million cubic meters (Tehri Reservoir) |
| Location | Tehri Garhwal district, Uttarakhand |
| River | Bhagirathi River (a tributary of the Ganges) |
| Purpose | Hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, flood control, and drinking water supply |
| Year of Completion | 2006 (Construction started in 1978) |
| Installed Power Capacity | 1,000 MW (with future plans to increase) |
| Irrigation Benefits | Provides irrigation to 270,000 hectares |
| Water Supply | Drinking water supply to over 4 million people in Delhi, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh |
| Reservoir Length | 45 kilometers |
| Construction Material | Earth and rock-fill dam |
| Tourism Impact | The reservoir, Tehri Lake, has become a major tourist attraction for water sports and scenic beauty |
| Environmental Impact | Displacement of local communities and environmental concerns due to its location in a seismic-prone area |
2. Bhakra Nangal Dam
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The Bhakra Nangal Dam, located on the Sutlej River in Himachal Pradesh, is one of the largest and most important dams in India.
It plays a crucial role in irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and water supply across northern India.
The dam is also notable for its flood control capabilities. Bhakra Nangal’s construction started in the 1940s and stands as a symbol of India’s engineering prowess, contributing to agricultural prosperity in the surrounding regions.
Bhakra Nangal Dam Details
| Attribute | Details |
| Dam Name | Bhakra Nangal Dam |
| Height | 226 meters (741 feet) |
| Water Capacity | 9,340 million cubic meters (Gobind Sagar Reservoir) |
| Location | Himachal Pradesh |
| River | Sutlej River |
| Purpose | Irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and flood control |
| Year of Completion | 1963 |
| Installed Power Capacity | 1,325 MW |
| Irrigation Benefits | Supports irrigation for over 10 million hectares across Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan |
| Water Supply | Provides water for irrigation, drinking water, and industries |
| Reservoir Length | 90 kilometers |
| Tourism Impact | Popular for boating and fishing activities |
| Environmental Impact | Submersion of large areas and displacement of communities |
3. Sardar Sarovar Dam
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The Sardar Sarovar Dam, located on the Narmada River in Gujarat, is an integral part of India’s water distribution system. It provides water for irrigation, drinking water supply, and hydroelectric power generation.
The dam has been a significant factor in the development of Gujarat, supplying water to arid regions and generating power for industries and households alike.
Sardar Sarovar Dam Details
| Attribute | Details |
| Dam Name | Sardar Sarovar Dam |
| Height | 163 meters (535 feet) |
| Water Capacity | 5,800 million cubic meters |
| Location | Gujarat |
| River | Narmada River |
| Purpose | Irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and drinking water supply |
| Year of Completion | 2017 |
| Installed Power Capacity | 1,450 MW |
| Irrigation Benefits | Irrigates more than 1.8 million hectares |
| Water Supply | Drinking water for nearly 30 million people |
| Reservoir Length | 214 kilometers |
| Tourism Impact | Statue of Unity and surrounding areas have become major tourist attractions |
| Environmental Impact | Submersion of villages and resettlement issues |
5. Hirakud Dam
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Hirakud Dam is the longest dam in India, situated on the Mahanadi River in Odisha. This impressive dam spans an incredible distance and serves multiple purposes, including flood control, irrigation, and hydroelectric power generation.
The dam’s reservoir, Hirakud Lake, is one of the largest artificial lakes in India, covering an extensive area. Its construction was completed in 1957 and has been instrumental in supporting agriculture in Odisha.
Hirakud is also a crucial element in preventing floods, particularly in the delta regions of the Mahanadi River. The dam’s contribution to the region’s water management and electricity needs has been transformative.
Hirakud Dam Details
| Attribute | Details |
| Dam Name | Hirakud Dam |
| Height | 60.96 meters (200 feet) |
| Water Capacity | 8,130 million cubic meters (Hirakud Reservoir) |
| Location | Odisha |
| River | Mahanadi River |
| Purpose | Irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and flood control |
| Year of Completion | 1957 |
| Installed Power Capacity | 307.5 MW |
| Irrigation Benefits | Supports irrigation for nearly 436,000 hectares |
| Water Supply | Drinking water and flood management for the region |
| Reservoir Length | 55 kilometers |
| Tourism Impact | Popular spot for nature lovers and boat rides |
| Environmental Impact | Displacement of local population and changes in riverine ecology |
5. Nagarjuna Sagar Dam
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Nagarjuna Sagar Dam, located on the Krishna River between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, is one of the largest masonry dams in the world.
It serves as a key source of irrigation for the fertile lands of both states, contributing significantly to the agriculture of the region.
Besides its massive height, the dam supports a large reservoir that stores water for irrigation, hydroelectric power, and drinking water purposes. Its construction was completed in 1967, and it remains an engineering marvel in India. The dam is also a crucial source of electricity for the region.
Nagarjuna Sagar Dam Details
| Attribute | Details |
| Dam Name | Nagarjuna Sagar Dam |
| Height | 124 meters (407 feet) |
| Water Capacity | 11,560 million cubic meters |
| Location | Andhra Pradesh and Telangana |
| River | Krishna River |
| Purpose | Irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and drinking water supply |
| Year of Completion | 1967 |
| Installed Power Capacity | 815.6 MW |
| Irrigation Benefits | Irrigates over 1.8 million hectares |
| Water Supply | Drinking water for several cities and towns |
| Reservoir Length | 150 kilometers |
| Tourism Impact | Tourist spot with beautiful views of the reservoir |
| Environmental Impact | Submerged historical temples and displacement of communities |
6. Indira Sagar Dam
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The Indira Sagar Dam, located on the Narmada River in Madhya Pradesh, is one of India’s most significant hydroelectric power projects.
This dam is part of the larger Narmada Valley Development Project and provides irrigation, power generation, and flood control.
The reservoir created by the dam is one of the largest in India by water capacity, offering water storage that benefits the entire region. Indira Sagar plays a vital role in providing drinking water, irrigation, and electricity to surrounding areas.
Indira Sagar Dam Details
| Attribute | Details |
| Dam Name | Indira Sagar Dam |
| Height | 92 meters (302 feet) |
| Water Capacity | 12,220 million cubic meters |
| Location | Madhya Pradesh |
| River | Narmada River |
| Purpose | Hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and flood control |
| Year of Completion | 2005 |
| Installed Power Capacity | 1,000 MW |
| Irrigation Benefits | Irrigates over 1.23 million hectares |
| Water Supply | Supplies drinking water to multiple towns in Madhya Pradesh |
| Reservoir Length | 91 kilometers |
| Tourism Impact | Growing as a tourism hub for water sports and nature trails |
| Environmental Impact | Inundation of forests and wildlife habitats |
7. Koyna Dam
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Koyna Dam is one of the largest dams in Maharashtra and plays a pivotal role in the state’s power generation and water supply.
Located on the Koyna River, this dam is part of the Koyna Hydroelectric Project, one of the largest completed hydroelectric projects in India.
The dam has been critical for providing electricity to the state while also playing a role in irrigation and flood control. Built in 1964, Koyna Dam has had a significant impact on Maharashtra’s development.
Koyna Dam Details
| Attribute | Details |
| Dam Name | Koyna Dam |
| Height | 103.2 meters (339 feet) |
| Water Capacity | 2,797 million cubic meters (Shivsagar Lake) |
| Location | Maharashtra |
| River | Koyna River |
| Purpose | Hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and flood control |
| Year of Completion | 1964 |
| Installed Power Capacity | 1,960 MW |
| Irrigation Benefits | Provides irrigation to over 687,000 hectares |
| Water Supply | Drinking water supply for local areas |
| Reservoir Length | 50 kilometers |
| Tourism Impact | The dam’s reservoir has become a popular tourist destination |
| Environmental Impact | Frequent seismic activity in the area due to its construction |
8. Rihand Dam
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Rihand Dam, located on the Rihand River in Uttar Pradesh, is known for creating the largest reservoir in India by volume, known as Govind Ballabh Pant Sagar.
This dam is crucial for irrigation and hydroelectric power generation in northern India. Rihand’s reservoir has a massive storage capacity, providing water for agricultural lands and industries in the region.
The dam also supports a significant hydroelectric power project, making it an essential asset for the country.
Rihand Dam Details
| Attribute | Details |
| Dam Name | Rihand Dam |
| Height | 91 meters (299 feet) |
| Water Capacity | 10,600 million cubic meters (Govind Ballabh Pant Sagar) |
| Location | Uttar Pradesh |
| River | Rihand River |
| Purpose | Hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and water supply |
| Year of Completion | 1962 |
| Installed Power Capacity | 300 MW |
| Irrigation Benefits | Provides water for irrigation in parts of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh |
| Water Supply | Essential water source for local industries |
| Reservoir Length | 80 kilometers |
| Tourism Impact | Noted for its scenic views and potential for boating activities |
| Environmental Impact | Loss of forest land and wildlife habitat during its construction |
9. Tungabhadra Dam
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Tungabhadra Dam is located on the Tungabhadra River in Karnataka and is known for its significant contributions to agriculture, irrigation, and power generation in southern India.
The dam’s reservoir serves as a critical water source for the region, benefiting both Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.
Its primary role is irrigation, providing water for millions of hectares of farmland, though it also generates hydroelectric power.
Tungabhadra Dam Details
| Attribute | Details |
| Dam Name | Tungabhadra Dam |
| Height | 49.39 meters (162 feet) |
| Water Capacity | 3,760 million cubic meters |
| Location | Karnataka |
| River | Tungabhadra River |
| Purpose | Irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and flood control |
| Year of Completion | 1953 |
| Installed Power Capacity | 72 MW |
| Irrigation Benefits | Irrigates 1.2 million hectares of land in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh |
| Water Supply | Provides water for industries and drinking purposes |
| Reservoir Length | 60 kilometers |
| Tourism Impact | Major attraction for local tourism with boating and scenic views |
| Environmental Impact | Minor displacement of local populations |
10. Mettur Dam
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The Mettur Dam, located on the Cauvery River in Tamil Nadu, is one of the oldest and most significant dams in southern India.
The dam’s reservoir, known as the Stanley Reservoir, supports irrigation across vast areas of Tamil Nadu, especially in the agricultural-rich delta region.
Mettur also contributes to drinking water supply and plays a vital role in managing water disputes between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
Mettur Dam Details
| Attribute | Details |
| Dam Name | Mettur Dam |
| Height | 65 meters (213 feet) |
| Water Capacity | 2,146 million cubic meters (Stanley Reservoir) |
| Location | Tamil Nadu |
| River | Cauvery River |
| Purpose | Irrigation, water supply, and hydroelectric power generation |
| Year of Completion | 1934 |
| Installed Power Capacity | 240 MW |
| Irrigation Benefits | Supports irrigation for over 1.3 million acres |
| Water Supply | Major water source for drinking and agriculture in Tamil Nadu |
| Reservoir Length | 36 kilometers |
| Tourism Impact | Popular spot for tourists and nature lovers |
| Environmental Impact | Minimal, though there were historical disputes over water sharing |
Conclusion
India’s largest dams stand as symbols of engineering brilliance and are pivotal to the nation’s infrastructure. From the towering Tehri Dam to the sprawling Hirakud Dam, these massive structures play a vital role in supporting India’s agricultural needs, generating hydroelectric power, and providing water to millions.
Beyond their practical functions, these dams also contribute to flood control and have become significant tourist attractions in many regions.
As India continues to grow and develop, these dams will remain central to managing the country’s water resources and meeting the demands of its expanding population. With ongoing innovation and sustainable practices, the future of dam development in India looks promising.
FAQs About Biggest Dam in India
How do large dams help prevent floods in India?
Large dams regulate water flow by storing excess rainwater during the monsoon, preventing downstream flooding in river basins and nearby areas.
Why is Bhakra Nangal Dam called a multi-purpose dam?
Bhakra Nangal is a multi-purpose dam because it provides irrigation, generates hydroelectric power, aids flood control, and supplies drinking water.
Which river is associated with the Sardar Sarovar Dam?
The Sardar Sarovar Dam is built on the Narmada River, supporting irrigation, drinking water supply, and electricity for multiple Indian states.
How do dams contribute to water conservation in India?
Dams store and conserve rainwater, ensuring a steady supply for drinking, agriculture, and industrial use, especially during dry and drought periods.
What role do dams play in hydroelectric power generation?
Dams convert the energy from falling water into electricity by driving turbines, making them a crucial source of renewable, clean energy in India.
What is the significance of Hirakud Dam’s length?
Hirakud Dam, India’s longest dam, stretches over 25 kilometers, helping control floods, provide irrigation, and generate power for Odisha and nearby regions.
Why is the Tehri Dam significant for North India?
The Tehri Dam is vital for North India, as it generates electricity, provides irrigation water, and supplies drinking water to several states, including Delhi and Uttar Pradesh.
