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Hirakud Dam, one of the longest dams in the world, is constructed on which river in India?
  • a)
    Narmada
  • b)
    Krishna
  • c)
    Mahanadi
  • d)
    Tungabhadra
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?
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Hirakud Dam, one of the longest dams in the world, is constructed on w...
Hirakud Dam is constructed on the Mahanadi River in Odisha, primarily for irrigation and power generation.
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Hirakud Dam, one of the longest dams in the world, is constructed on w...


The correct answer is option 'C': Mahanadi.


Hirakud Dam is one of the longest dams in the world and a major multipurpose river valley project located in the state of Odisha, India. It is constructed on the Mahanadi River, which is one of the major rivers of the Indian subcontinent.


The Hirakud Dam plays a significant role in the irrigation and power generation of the region. It serves as a major source of water for agricultural purposes, providing irrigation facilities to a vast area of about 1,20,000 square kilometers in Odisha. Additionally, the dam also generates hydroelectricity, contributing to the power requirements of the state.


The construction of Hirakud Dam began in 1948 and was completed in 1957. The dam was built as a joint venture between the Government of Odisha and the Government of India. The project was undertaken to control the annual floods in the Mahanadi River, provide irrigation facilities, and generate hydroelectric power.

The dam is approximately 4.8 kilometers long and stands at a height of 60.96 meters. It is a composite structure consisting of earthen embankments, concrete spillways, and powerhouses. The main dam, known as the Burla Dam, is situated near the town of Burla in Sambalpur district.


The Hirakud Dam project comprises several key components:

1. Reservoir: The dam forms a huge reservoir known as the Hirakud Reservoir, which has a total storage capacity of 5.8 billion cubic meters. The reservoir stretches over an area of about 743 square kilometers, making it one of the largest artificial lakes in Asia.

2. Flood Control: One of the primary purposes of the dam is to control the floods caused by the Mahanadi River. It helps regulate the flow of water during the monsoon season, reducing the risk of floods downstream.

3. Irrigation: The dam provides irrigation facilities to an extensive command area, benefiting agriculture in the region. The water stored in the reservoir is released through canals and channels to irrigate agricultural fields.

4. Hydroelectric Power: Hirakud Dam has three powerhouses equipped with turbines that generate hydroelectric power. The powerhouses have a combined installed capacity of 307.5 MW and contribute significantly to the energy requirements of Odisha.

5. Navigation: The reservoir also facilitates inland navigation, allowing boats and barges to ply along the Mahanadi River and its tributaries.


In conclusion, Hirakud Dam, one of the longest dams in the world, is constructed on the Mahanadi River in India. The dam plays a crucial role in flood control, irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and navigation. Its construction has brought immense benefits to the region, contributing to the overall development and prosperity of Odisha.
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Hirakud Dam, one of the longest dams in the world, is constructed on which river in India?a)Narmadab)Krishnac)Mahanadid)TungabhadraCorrect answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?
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