The Dams in Orissa are built on several rivers flowing across the states like the Godavari River, Machkund, Indravati and a lot more. Some of the dams built are used as reservoirs for irrigation purpose, while others are used as hydroelectric power stations. Some of the important dams in the state of Orissa are Hirakud Dam, Jalaput Dam, Indravati Dam and Balimela Reservoir. The Hirakud Dam is the first major multipurpose river valley project in India, after India was liberated from British rule in the year 1947. Flood control is one of the main features of this project. Jalaput Dam is built on the Machkund River. It stands along the Mudugal hills of Visakhapatnam District. The dam lies close to the Ondra Gadda that eventually becomes the boundary between Andhra Pradesh and Orissa.

The Indravati Dam is renowned for the hydro-electric Project in Orissa. Built over the Indravati River, this dam is also a picnic spot and is frequently visited by the tourists for its picturesque surroundings. The water reservoir is not only a beauty of the region, but also generates ample hydroelectric power. The Indravati Dam has a catchment area of 2630 kilometers. The Balimela Reservoir and the Balimela Power Station are the two very important units of Orissa, generating hydel power. Balimela Dam is known as a joint project of Orissa and Andhra Pradesh Governments and the inflow into Balimela Reservoir is shared between the two States equally.