The Koyna Dam in Maharashtra, India, is one of the largest dams, built across the Koyna River. It’s a concrete and rubble structure situated in the Western Ghats. Serving as India’s second-largest hydroelectric power plant after the Tehri Dam Project, it provides power to nearby areas and water to Paschim Maharashtra while also preventing flooding during the monsoon. The dam creates the extensive Shivsagar Lake, and its hydroelectric capacity is 1,960 MW. It’s a crucial topic for the UPSC IAS exam, covering geography in both Prelims and Mains syllabus
The Koyna Dam, situated in Maharashtra, India, is one of the largest dams in the region. Constructed as a rubble-concrete dam, it spans the Koyna River, originating from Mahabaleshwar in the Sahyadri ranges. Positioned in Koyna Nagar, Satara district, it lies along the state highway between Chiplun and Karad, nestled within the Western Ghats.
Here you can see the recent update on Koyna Dam. Check the following pointers:
Attribute | Description |
Location | Satara district, Maharashtra, India |
Purpose | Hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and water supply |
Hydroelectric Power | Koyna Hydroelectric Power Plant is located here, one of India’s largest hydroelectric power stations |
Reservoir | Creates Shivsagar Lake, a large and scenic reservoir |
Earthquake Controversy | Associated with induced seismicity and earthquakes in the region |
Tourism | A popular tourist destination for its natural beauty and recreational activities |
Historical Significance | Played a crucial role in the region’s development |
Engineering Feat | Noted for its size and engineering challenges due to the Western Ghats terrain |
The primary aim of the dam is to produce hydroelectric power and provide irrigation to nearby regions. Presently, the Koyna Hydroelectric Project stands as India’s largest completed hydroelectric power plant, boasting a total installed capacity of 1,920 MW. Recognized for its significant power generation capacity, the Koyna River holds the title of the ‘lifeline of Maharashtra’.
Situated at the centre of the dam, the spillway features 6 radial gates and plays a pivotal role in flood control during the monsoon season. The reservoir formed by the dam’s catchment area gives rise to Shivsagar Lake, spanning approximately 50 km (31 mi) in length. This project represents one of the largest civil engineering initiatives undertaken post-Indian independence. The management of the Koyna hydroelectric project falls under the jurisdiction of the Maharashtra State Electricity Board.
Koyna Dam is important due to its electricity generating potential through the Koyna Hydroelectric Project. It is also called the “Life Line of Maharashtra”
The Koyna Dam was constructed by the Government of Maharashtra in 1956.
The Tata group constructed a hydroelectric facility on the Koyna river after World War I(1914-18). The work on the Koyna dam was initiated in 1951 and the first turbine started working in 1962. It is India's second-largest completed hydropower plant.
The Koyna River is situated in the Satara district of Maharashtra. It flows from the North to the South direction.
The Koyna dam was broken on 10th December 1967 by a devastating 6.3 magnitude earthquake.
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