Tehri Dam

The Tehri Dam is a multi-purpose rock and earth-fill embankment dam on the Bhagirathi River near Tehri in Uttarakhand, India. It is the tallest dam in India and one of the tallest in the world.

Overview:

The dam is a crucial component of the Tehri Hydro Development Corporation (THDC) India Limited project, and serves multiple purposes, including irrigation, drinking water supply, and hydroelectric power generation. The dam's construction faced significant opposition due to concerns about its geological stability, potential for seismic activity in the region, and displacement of local populations.

Specifications:

• Type: Rock and earth-fill embankment
• Height: 260.5 meters (855 ft)
• Length: 575 meters (1,886 ft)
• Reservoir Capacity: Approximately 4.0 cubic kilometers (3,300,000 acre⋅ft)
• Power Generation Capacity: Over 1,000 MW (through various phases)

Purpose and Benefits:

The Tehri Dam project aims to provide:

• Irrigation: Expanding irrigation potential to downstream areas, supporting agriculture.
• Drinking Water: Supplying potable water to Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
• Hydroelectric Power: Generating electricity to contribute to the national grid.
• Flood Control: Regulating river flow and mitigating flood risks in the downstream areas.

Controversies and Concerns:

• Seismic Activity: The dam's location in a seismically active zone has raised concerns about its ability to withstand earthquakes.
• Displacement: The construction of the dam resulted in the displacement of numerous villages and residents, leading to resettlement challenges.
• Environmental Impact: Concerns have been raised regarding the potential impact on the river ecosystem and biodiversity.
• Dam Safety: Continuous monitoring and maintenance are crucial to ensure the dam's long-term safety and stability.

Current Status:

The Tehri Dam is currently operational, and its benefits continue to be realized. However, ongoing monitoring, mitigation measures, and resettlement efforts are essential to address the persistent concerns related to the dam's impact.