Indravati Dam

Indravati Dam, Koraput

Indravati Dam is a hydroelectric dam located on the Indravati River in the state of Odisha, India. The dam is located near the city of Koraput and is one of the major hydroelectric power generating stations in the state.

Gateway of Indravati Dam in Koraput

The Indravati Dam project was first proposed in the 1950s, with construction beginning in the 1970s. The dam was completed in 1985 and began generating electricity in 1986. The dam's installed capacity is 600 megawatts, with four units of 150 megawatts each. The dam's power generation plays an important role in meeting the electricity needs of the state of Odisha.


The Indravati Dam is a gravity dam, which means that its weight holds it in place against the force of the water flowing through it. The dam stands at a height of 111 meters and is 1,710 meters long. The dam's reservoir has a capacity of 44.06 billion cubic meters and an area of 6,918 square kilometers. The dam also serves as a major source of irrigation for the surrounding region, with a total ayacut of 1,11,600 hectare.


The Indravati Dam also offers a great spot for tourism and adventure activities like trekking, boating, and fishing. The dam's surroundings are home to a rich variety of flora and fauna and are popular among nature enthusiasts. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic views of the dam and its surroundings.


One of the impact of the Indravati Dam on the local population is displacement. The construction of the dam led to the displacement of thousands of people who were living in the area that would be flooded by the reservoir. These people were provided with compensation and rehabilitation, but the process was not without its challenges. The rehabilitation has also led to ecological issues such as loss of biodiversity and loss of habitat for several species.


In conclusion, the Indravati Dam is a crucial infrastructure for the state of Odisha, providing electricity and irrigation for the region. It is also a popular tourist destination and offers opportunities for adventure activities. It has also faced challenges in the form of displacement and ecological impacts. The Indravati Dam project is a reminder of the trade-offs that come with large-scale development projects, and the importance of considering their effects on local communities and the environment.

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