The state of Odisha is located in the eastern part of India. The geographical terrain of this state is characterized by mountain ranges, valleys, plateaus, rolling uplands, rivers, lakes, beaches and plains with fertile silt deposits. These, along with temples based on Indo Aryan Nagara style of architecture, Buddhist and Jain pilgrimage centers, national parks, hill station, etc have not only beautified this state, but also affect the economy of the country. Dams of Odisha are also vital aspects of the state. They play an important role in the development of Odisha and also affect lives and settlement in the state. These dams have been built on several rivers flowing across the state. Given below are the Dams in Odisha.
Hirakud Dam Hirakud Dam is the first major multipurpose river valley project in India, which started after India was liberated from British rule in the year 1947. Flood control is one of the main features of this project. Located at a distance of about 15 kilometers from Sambalpur, the dam has been built across Mahanadi River. A 55 kilometer long lake called Hirakud Reservoir extends behind the dam. It supports two hydroelectric power houses.
Jalaput Dam Jalaput Dam has been built on the Machkund River, which is a tributary of Godavari 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 Odisha. It is a hydroelectric dam.
Indravati Dam Indravati Dam has been built over the Indravati River. The water reservoir is not only a beauty of the region, but also generates ample hydroelectric power. This dam is a picnic spot and is frequently visited by the tourists for its picturesque surroundings. The Indravati Dam has a catchment area of about 2630 kilometers.
Balimela Dam Balimela Dam is known as a joint project of the Odisha Government and Andhra Pradesh Government and the inflow into Balimela Reservoir is shared by the two states equally.
Mandira Dam Mandira Dam stands across the Sankh River near Kansbahal in Sundergarh district of Odisha. The water from the dam is utilized in Rourkela Steel Plant. Its construction began after the year 1957. It also serves as a tourist spot and offers boating facility to the visitors.
Patora Dam Patora Dam is another significant dam of Odisha which has been built across Jonk River. It stands in the Patora Village which lies at a distance of 18 kilometers from Nuapada in Nuapada district of Odisha.
Rengali Dam Rengali Dam is located over the Brahmani River in the Angul district of Odisha. It was built in the year 1985. Initially its construction met much opposition from the people who had to relocate owing to its construction. The reservoir created by the dam is credited as the second largest reservoir of the state. It has a catchment area mostly covered with forests and wasteland. It is used to generate electricity.
Other Dams in Odisha Some of the other Dams in Odisha are Alubani Dam, Badanalla Dam, Bhagirijhala Dam and Chheligada Dam.
