Tehri is tallest dam of India. It is multipurpose rock and earth and earth fill embankment Dam. It is located in the northern state of Uttarakhand. It is one of the largest hydroelectric projects in the world and a significant engineering marvel. The construction of the dam began in 1978 and was completed in 2006, spanning almost three decades. The dam is built on the Bhagirathi River, a tributary of the Ganges River, and serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and flood control. However, the Tehri Dam has also been surrounded by controversy and environmental concerns.

The Tehri Dam stands at an impressive height of approximately 260 meters (853 feet) and has a length of about 575 meters (1,886 feet). The dam is a rock and earth-fill embankment structure, which means it, is constructed by placing a combination of rocks, boulders, and earth in layers to create a strong barrier. The dam's reservoir, named Tehri Lake, has a massive storage capacity of 2.6 billion cubic meters.

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Benefits of Tehri Dam

Hydroelectric Power Generation: One of the primary advantages of the Tehri Dam is its capacity to generate clean and renewable hydroelectric power. The dam's power station has an installed capacity of 1,000 megawatts, making it a crucial source of electricity for the surrounding region.

Irrigation: The dam's reservoir provides irrigation water to over 600,000 hectares of farmland, significantly enhancing agricultural productivity and improving the livelihoods of local farmers.

Flood Control: The dam plays a crucial role in flood control, especially during the monsoon season when the rivers in the region often swell and cause devastating floods. The reservoir can store excess water, reducing downstream flooding and mitigating damage to settlements and crops.

Water Supply: The Tehri Lake serves as a vital source of drinking water for the nearby towns and villages, ensuring a reliable water supply for domestic use and industrial needs.

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Controversies and Environmental Concerns

Displacement and Rehabilitation: The construction of the Tehri Dam led to the displacement of thousands of families residing in the catchment area of the Bhagirathi River. The resettlement and rehabilitation of affected communities were marred by allegations of inadequate compensation, lack of proper facilities, and disrupted livelihoods.

Seismic Activity: The Tehri region is situated in a seismically active zone, making it susceptible to earthquakes. Some experts have raised concerns about the dam's structural integrity in the event of a severe earthquake, which could have catastrophic consequences downstream.

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Environmental Impact: The Tehri Dam resulted in the submergence of vast forest areas, leading to habitat loss and affecting biodiversity in the region. The dam's reservoir also altered the natural flow of the Bhagirathi River, impacting downstream ecosystems and fish migration.

Geopolitical Tensions: The construction of the Tehri Dam has led to diplomatic tensions between India and its downstream neighbor, Pakistan, as it affects the flow of the Indus River, which is a vital water source for Pakistan.

The Tehri Dam stands as an impressive testament to India's engineering capabilities and has contributed significantly to the country's energy and water management. However, its construction has not been without controversy, with concerns raised about displacement, environmental impact, and seismic vulnerability. Addressing these issues and ensuring sustainable and equitable development remains a challenge for the authorities. The Tehri Dam's legacy reflects the complexities of balancing development and environmental conservation in the pursuit of harnessing natural resources for the greater good of society.

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