List of Major Dams in India with States and Rivers

Dams are some of the most significant engineering marvels in the country and are crucial for water management, irrigation, flood control, and power generation. In this article, we explore the List of Major Dams in India, their locations, the rivers they span, and the vital roles they play in the nation’s progress. Let’s discover how these iconic dams help shape India’s future.

What Is a Dam? Understanding Their Purpose

A dam is a large structure built across a river or stream to hold back and control the flow of water. The primary functions of dams include storing water, generating hydroelectric power, supporting agriculture through irrigation, and ensuring water supply for domestic and industrial use. Dams also play a crucial role in flood management and often become centers for tourism and recreation.

• Dams create reservoirs that provide a steady water supply year-round.

• Hydroelectric power stations at dams use flowing water to generate clean energy.

• Floods are prevented by controlling water release, especially during monsoons.

• Fertile lands benefit from reliable irrigation water sourced from dam reservoirs.

Types of Dams in India

India has built different types of dams, each designed for specific environments and needs. Understanding these types helps appreciate the engineering behind the list of major dams in India:

• Gravity Dams: Massive structures that use their own weight to resist water pressure (e.g., Bhakra Nangal Dam).

• Arch Dams: Curved design transfers water pressure to surrounding rock (e.g., Idukki Dam).

• Embankment and Rock-fill Dams: Made from earth and rock materials, suitable for wide valleys (e.g., Hirakud Dam, Tehri Dam).

• Masonry or Concrete Dams: Built with stone or concrete blocks, extremely strong (e.g., Nagarjuna Sagar Dam).

• Barrages: Low, gate-controlled structures for diverting water flow (e.g., Farakka Barrage).

List of Major Dams in India with River and State

The above list of major dams in India with river and state gives a snapshot of the country’s largest and most important dams, covering their principal uses and impressive dimensions. These dams are essential for managing India’s vast water resources efficiently, and knowing their locations is valuable for both general knowledge and competitive exams.

State-wise List of Major Dams in India

With over 5,000 large dams spread across India, several states have become synonymous with iconic water reservoirs. Here’s a quick overview of the list of major dams in India state wise that highlights the diversity of these structures nationwide:

• Andhra Pradesh & Telangana: Nagarjuna Sagar Dam, Srisailam Dam, Somasila Dam

• Gujarat: Sardar Sarovar Dam, Ukai Dam, Kadana Dam

• Himachal Pradesh: Bhakra Nangal Dam, Pandoh Dam, Pong Dam

• Karnataka: Krishnarajasagar Dam, Tungabhadra Dam, Supa Dam

• Kerala: Idukki Dam, Mullaperiyar Dam, Malampuzha Dam

• Madhya Pradesh: Indira Sagar Dam, Bargi Dam, Gandhi Sagar Dam

• Maharashtra: Koyna Dam, Jayakwadi Dam, Wilson Dam

• Tamil Nadu: Mettur Dam, Vaigai Dam, Parambikulam Aliyar Dam

• Odisha: Hirakud Dam, Rengali Dam, Balimela Dam

• Other states: Many more important dams can be found across Uttar Pradesh (Rihand, Obra), Rajasthan (Bisalpur, Rana Pratap Sagar), Uttarakhand (Tehri, Ramganga), and West Bengal (Farakka Barrage, Maithon Dam).

Importance of Dams in India

The list of major dams in India points to the vital role these infrastructures play in the nation’s growth. Their benefits extend far beyond water storage, impacting daily life and national development in many ways.

• Water supply: Reliable source for drinking, farming, and industry, even during dry periods.

• Irrigation: Ensures consistent water to Indian farmlands, boosting agricultural output.

• Hydroelectric power: Produces a large part of India’s renewable energy.

• Flood control: Protects lives and crops from monsoon floods by regulating river flow.

• Recreation & Navigation: Many reservoirs serve as tourist spots and allow transport along rivers.

Top 10 Biggest Dams in India

The top 10 biggest dam in India list includes projects that have set national records, both in height and capacity. These dams are not only engineering showpieces but also lifelines for millions.

1. Tehri Dam (Uttarakhand) – India’s tallest dam

2. Bhakra Nangal Dam (Himachal Pradesh) – among the highest gravity dams

3. Hirakud Dam (Odisha) – world’s longest earthen dam

4. Nagarjuna Sagar Dam (Telangana/Andhra Pradesh) – largest masonry dam in India

5. Sardar Sarovar Dam (Gujarat) – crucial multipurpose dam

6. Indira Sagar Dam (Madhya Pradesh) – largest reservoir by capacity

7. Srisailam Dam (Andhra Pradesh) – important for irrigation and power

8. Idukki Dam (Kerala) – impressive arch dam

9. Koyna Dam (Maharashtra) – major hydroelectric site

10. Tungabhadra Dam (Karnataka) – supports southern agriculture

Historical and Notable Dams in India

Besides the modern giants, India is home to some of the oldest operating dams. The Kallanai (Grand Anicut) on the Kaveri River in Tamil Nadu is the country’s oldest, built in the 2nd century CE and still in use.

• Kallanai Dam: Demonstrates ancient Indian engineering prowess.

• Farakka Barrage: Influences irrigation and flood control in eastern India.

List of Major Dams in India: Map and PDF Download Information

For students and researchers, visualizing the List of Major Dams in India Map is extremely helpful. Detailed maps and resources are often used in Class 10 Social Science and for general studies. If you’re looking for a list of major dams in India PDF or a state-wise listing with rivers, educational platforms like Vedantu provide clear, updated notes and resources for all levels.

Recent Developments and Future Challenges

India is investing in modernizing its existing dams to meet new challenges—climate change, increased irrigation demand, and growing urban water needs. Additionally, issues like interstate water disputes and ecological concerns require sustainable dam management and cooperation among states.

Page Summary

India’s major dams are vital for water storage, electricity generation, and agricultural prosperity. From the towering Tehri and vast Hirakud to ancient structures like Kallanai, these dams anchor the nation’s development. Knowing the list of major dams in India, their rivers, locations, and roles helps students and citizens appreciate their value for India’s sustainable future.