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Tehri Dam, located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, is one of the most impressive engineering feats in the country. It stands tall on the Bhagirathi River near the town of Tehri, and it has a significant impact on the region’s development, both economically and environmentally. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of Tehri Dam, also known as Tehri Bandh, and understand its importance, construction, benefits, and challenges.
The Birth of Tehri Bhandh (Dam)
The idea of building Tehri Dam was conceived in the 1950s, but it wasn’t until 1978 that the project officially began. The dam was constructed to address several critical needs: controlling floods, generating hydroelectric power, and providing water for irrigation. It took over two decades to complete, with the final phase wrapping up in 2006. This long and arduous journey involved the efforts of numerous engineers, workers, and government officials.
A Closer Look at Tehri Bhandh (Dam)
Tehri Dam is a rock and earth-fill embankment dam, which means it is constructed using natural materials like rock and earth. It stands at an impressive height of 260.5 meters (855 feet), making it the highest dam in India and one of the tallest in the world. The dam stretches across 575 meters (1,886 feet) in length and has a reservoir capacity of 3.54 billion cubic meters of water.
Key Features and Benefits
- Hydroelectric Power Generation ⚡
One of the primary purposes of Tehri bandh Dam is to generate electricity. The dam has an installed capacity of 1,000 megawatts (MW) of hydroelectric power, which plays a crucial role in meeting the energy demands of the region. The power generated here is supplied to several northern states, helping in industrial growth and providing electricity to millions of homes.
- Irrigation and Water Supply 🚜
Tehri Dam provides a reliable source of water for irrigation, benefiting thousands of farmers in the region. The reservoir stores water that can be used during dry seasons, ensuring that crops receive the necessary water to thrive. Additionally, the dam supplies drinking water to major cities like Delhi, providing clean and safe water to millions of people.
- Flood Control 🌊
The dam plays a vital role in controlling floods in the downstream areas. By regulating the flow of the Bhagirathi River, Tehri Dam helps prevent the devastating impact of floods that can destroy homes, farmlands, and infrastructure.
Environmental and Social Impact
While Tehri Dam has brought numerous benefits, it has also faced criticism for its environmental and social impacts. The construction of the dam led to the submergence of the town of Old Tehri and surrounding villages, displacing thousands of people. The resettlement and rehabilitation of these communities were challenging and continue to be a point of contention.
Environmentalists have raised concerns about the impact on the river ecosystem and the loss of biodiversity. The Bhagirathi River’s flow has been altered, affecting aquatic life and the natural habitat. Efforts have been made to address these issues, but the debate over the dam’s environmental impact remains.
Visiting Tehri Bhandh (Dam)
Today, Tehri Dam is not just an engineering marvel but also a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the dam’s construction, its working, and its significance. The Tehri Lake, formed by the dam’s reservoir, offers a range of recreational activities such as boating, jet skiing, and fishing. The scenic beauty of the surrounding Garhwal Himalayas makes it a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, there are plans to further harness the potential of Tehri Dam. The Tehri Pumped Storage Plant, an extension project, aims to add an additional 1,000 MW of power generation capacity. This will involve using the reservoir’s stored water to generate electricity during peak demand periods, further stabilizing the region’s power supply.
Conclusion
Tehri Dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity and the power of engineering. It has transformed the region’s landscape, providing electricity, water, and flood control to millions. While it has faced its share of challenges and controversies, its benefits cannot be overlooked. Tehri Dam continues to be a vital asset for India, contributing to the nation’s development and prosperity.
Whether you are a student, a tourist, or someone interested in engineering marvels, Tehri Dam is a place worth exploring. It tells a story of ambition, perseverance, and the complex balance between development and environmental preservation.
Tehri Bhandh FAQs
On which river is Tehri Dam?
Tehri Dam is built on the Bhagirathi River.
Why is Tehri Dam famous?
Tehri Dam is famous for being one of the highest dams in the world and its large hydroelectric power generation.
What will happen if Tehri Dam breaks?
If Tehri Dam breaks, it could cause severe flooding in downstream areas, leading to significant damage and loss of life.
टिहरी बांध टूटने से क्या होगा?
टिहरी बांध टूटने पर नीचे के इलाकों में बाढ़ आ सकती है, जिससे बड़े नुकसान और जीवन की हानि हो सकती है।
In which state is Tehri located?
Tehri is located in the state of Uttarakhand, India.
Which is the tallest dam in India?
The tallest dam in India is the Bhakra Dam.
What is the specialty of Tehri Dam?
The specialty of Tehri Dam is its height and its role in providing water, electricity, and flood control.
How much is Mini Maldives in Dehradun?
Mini Maldives in Dehradun varies in cost; it’s best to check local sources for the latest prices.
Can we go inside Tehri Dam?
No, the inside of Tehri Dam is generally not open to the public for safety reasons.
क्या हम टिहरी बांध के अंदर जा सकते हैं?
नहीं, टिहरी बांध के अंदर आमतौर पर सुरक्षा कारणों से जाना मना है।
