Hirakund Bandh – Hirakud Dam is a major reservoir on the Mahanadi River in India. The Hirakud Bandh refers to the closure of the dam’s gates to control water flow during monsoons and prevent flooding. It helps in regulating water supply, generating hydroelectric power, and facilitating irrigation in the region.
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Hirakund bandh pariyojana
The Hirakud Dam Project, also known as the Hirakud Bandh Pariyojana, is a significant multipurpose river valley project in Odisha, India. Here are the important points regarding the project:
Location of Hirakund Bandh
The project is situated on the Mahanadi River in the districts of Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, and Cuttack in Odisha.
Purpose of Hikakund Bandh
The project’s primary objectives include flood control, irrigation, and hydroelectric power generation.
Also, Read ⟫ River Valley Projects of India
Hirakund Bandh Construction
The construction of the Hirakud Dam started in 1948 and was completed in 1957. It is one of the longest earthen dams in the world, spanning a length of about 25.8 kilometres.
Reservoir Capacity of Hirakund Bandh
The dam created a vast reservoir called the Hirakud Reservoir, with a total capacity of around 5.8 billion cubic meters. It is the largest artificial lake in Asia.
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Flood Control by Hirakund Bandh Pariyojana
The dam plays a crucial role in flood control by regulating water flow during monsoons. The closure of its gates prevents excessive water from downstream flooding.
Hirakund Bandh and Irrigation
The Hirakud Dam provides water for irrigation purposes to a vast agricultural area of Odisha, covering about 4,500 square kilometers. It benefits numerous farmers in the region.
Hydroelectric Power Generation System under Hirakund Bandh Project
The project has a powerhouse equipped with two power stations. The Hirakud Hydroelectric Power Plant generates around 307.5 megawatts of electricity, contributing to the region’s power supply.
Hirakund Bandh Navigation
The reservoir created by the dam facilitates navigation in the Mahanadi River. It enables the transportation of goods and enhances connectivity in the region.
Also, Read ⟫ Longest River of India
Hirakund Bandh Tourism
The Hirakud Dam and its scenic surroundings have become popular tourist destination. The panoramic views of the reservoir and the dam attract visitors from various parts of the country.
Environmental Impact of Hirakund Bandh
The project has had some environmental consequences, such as the displacement of local communities and the submergence of forests. However, it has also contributed to the region’s overall development through irrigation and power generation.
Hirakund Bandh History
The Hirakud Dam is a major multipurpose river valley project located in the state of Odisha, India. It is constructed on the Mahanadi River, one of the largest rivers in India. The Hirakud Dam is considered a pioneering engineering feat and a significant landmark in India’s post-independence history. Here is a brief history of the Hirakud Dam:
1. Background: In the early 20th century, the Mahanadi River in Odisha experienced frequent floods during the monsoon season, causing extensive damage to life, property, and agriculture. The need for a large dam to control the river’s flow and harness its water resources for irrigation and hydropower was recognized.
2. Planning and Construction: The planning for the Hirakud Dam began in 1936 under the British colonial government. After India gained independence in 1947, the newly formed government continued the project. The construction of the dam started in 1948 and was completed in 1957. It was named after the nearby village of Hirakud.
3. Engineering Marvel: The Hirakud Dam is one of the longest earthen dams in the world, with a length of about 25 kilometers (15.5 miles). It was built using earth, concrete, and masonry and stands at a height of 60.96 meters (200 feet). The dam has two observation towers, Gandhi Minar and Nehru Minar, dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru.
4. Objectives and Benefits: The primary objectives of the Hirakud Dam were flood control, irrigation, and hydropower generation. The reservoir created by the dam, known as the Hirakud Reservoir, has a capacity of over 5,800 million cubic meters (4.7 million acre-feet) and provides irrigation water to over 1.6 million hectares of farmland in Odisha. The dam also generates hydroelectric power, with a capacity of 307.5 MW.
5. Social Impact: The Hirakud Dam’s construction resulted in thousands of people’s displacement from the surrounding areas. The government implemented rehabilitation and resettlement programs to address the needs of the affected communities. However, there have been ongoing concerns and challenges related to rehabilitation.
6. Tourist Attraction: The Hirakud Dam has become a popular tourist destination over the years. The vast reservoir, surrounded by hills and forests, offers scenic views and opportunities for boating and fishing. The observation towers provide panoramic views of the dam and its surroundings.
The Hirakud Dam is a symbol of India’s progress in harnessing its water resources for economic development. It continues to play a crucial role in irrigation, power generation, and flood control in the region, contributing to the socio-economic growth of Odisha.
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FAQs on Hirakund Bandh
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What is the purpose of the Hirakud Dam?
The Hirakud Dam serves multiple purposes, including flood control, irrigation, and hydroelectric power generation. It was primarily constructed to control the flow of the Mahanadi River, which was prone to severe flooding during the monsoon season. The dam’s reservoir also provides water for irrigation to a vast agricultural area and generates electricity through its hydroelectric power plant.
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Where is the Hirakud Dam located?
The Hirakud Dam is located in the state of Odisha in eastern India. It is situated on the Mahanadi River, near the village of Hirakud, which is approximately 15 kilometres (9.3 miles) from the city of Sambalpur.
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When was the Hirakud Dam constructed?
The construction of the Hirakud Dam began in 1948 and was completed in 1957. The planning for the dam started in 1936, and after India gained independence in 1947, the project continued under the newly formed government.
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How big is the Hirakud Reservoir?
The Hirakud Reservoir created by the dam has a vast storage capacity of over 5,800 million cubic meters (4.7 million acre-feet). It is one of the largest reservoirs in India and serves as a crucial water source for irrigation and hydropower generation.
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What is the length of the Hirakud Dam?
The Hirakud Dam is one of the longest earthen dams in the world, with a total length of about 25 kilometres (15.5 miles). It stretches across the Mahanadi River and its adjoining hills.
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Are there any tourist attractions near the Hirakud Dam?
Yes, the Hirakud Dam has become a popular tourist destination in Odisha. Besides the dam itself, visitors can explore the scenic surroundings, including the Hirakud Reservoir, hills, and forests. There are two observation towers named Gandhi Minar and Nehru Minar, which offer panoramic views of the dam and its surroundings. Boating and fishing activities are also available in the reservoir.
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How has the Hirakud Dam impacted the local communities?
The construction of the Hirakud Dam resulted in the displacement of several thousand people from the affected areas. The government implemented rehabilitation and resettlement programs to address their needs. However, there have been ongoing concerns and challenges related to the rehabilitation process and its impact on the displaced communities.
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Does the Hirakud Dam contribute to power generation?
Yes, the Hirakud Dam features a hydroelectric power plant that generates electricity. The power plant has a capacity of 307.5 MW and helps in meeting the region’s energy requirements.