{"id":45469,"date":"2023-12-22T14:10:31","date_gmt":"2023-12-22T08:40:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.cheggindia.com\/?post_type=general-knowledge&p=45469"},"modified":"2025-09-24T16:02:51","modified_gmt":"2025-09-24T10:32:51","slug":"largest-dam-in-india","status":"publish","type":"general-knowledge","link":"https:\/\/www.cheggindia.com\/hi\/general-knowledge\/largest-dam-in-india\/","title":{"rendered":"Tehri Dam: The Colossal Power and Purpose of India’s Largest Dam"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

What is the Largest Dam in India?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The largest dam in India is the Tehri Dam, located on the Bhagirathi River in Uttarakhand. Standing at 260.5 meters, it is one of the tallest dams in the world. Tehri Dam is vital for hydroelectric power, irrigation, and flood control, making it a key asset in India’s water management infrastructure. On the other hand, when measuring by the amount of water stored, the Indira Sagar Dam on the Narmada River in Madhya Pradesh ranks as the largest in India. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In addition, the Hirakud Dam in Odisha holds the title of the longest dam in India, stretching over 25.79 kilometers. It\u2019s also recognized as the longest earthen dam globally. Meanwhile, the Bhakra Nangal Dam is notable for being the second-highest concrete dam in the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Bhakra<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Types of Dams: Largest Dam in India<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Dams are crucial structures for water management and come in various types based on their construction and function. Here’s a breakdown: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Based on Structure<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. Arch Dams:<\/strong> These concrete dams have an upstream curve, resembling an arch. The water pressure pushes against the arch, strengthening the structure. They are ideal for narrow canyons with stable rock walls.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Gravity Dams:<\/strong> Made of concrete or masonry, these dams rely solely on their weight to resist water pressure. Each section is designed to be independent and stable.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Arch-Gravity Dams:<\/strong> Combining features of arch and gravity dams, these dams curve upstream, directing water pressure towards the canyon walls and reducing lateral force.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  4. Barrages:<\/strong> These low-head dams have gates to control water flow. They regulate river levels for irrigation and other purposes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  5. Embankment Dams:<\/strong> Constructed from compacted soil, sand, clay, or rock, these dams have a waterproof core and a semi-pervious surface.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  6. Rock-Fill Dams:<\/strong> Made of compacted rock and earth with an impervious zone, these dams are often used in areas with abundant rock.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  7. Concrete-Face Rock-Fill Dams (CFRDs):<\/strong> These dams have a concrete face on the upstream side, providing an impervious barrier and reducing uplift pressure.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  8. Earth-Fill Dams:<\/strong> Constructed entirely of earth, these dams require careful compaction and may include a drainage layer.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    History of Tehri Dam<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    The story of the largest dam in India, Tehri Dam, begins in the mid-20th century. The initial idea of constructing a dam on the Bhagirathi River was proposed in the 1950s. However, the actual construction work started much later, in 1978. The project faced numerous challenges, including technical difficulties, financial constraints, and environmental concerns. Despite these hurdles, the determination to harness the river’s potential for irrigation and power generation kept the project moving forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    After years of relentless effort and overcoming various obstacles, the Tehri Dam was finally completed in 2006. This monumental project was undertaken by the Tehri Hydro Development Corporation (THDC) and stands as a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Structure and Specifications of Tehri Dam<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    Tehri Dam, the largest dam in India and the fourth highest dam in the world, is a multi-purpose rock and earth-fill embankment dam on the Bhagirathi River, a tributary of the Ganges River. Here are some key structural features and specifications:<\/p>\n\n\n\n