The Bhakra Dam and its Spillway

The famous Bhakra Dam, located in the northern state of Himachal Pradesh in India, is one of the highest gravity dams in the world. It was built across the Sutlej River to provide water for irrigation and generate hydroelectric power. The dam has been equipped with a trough spillway to manage the excess water flow.

Understanding Trough Spillway

A trough spillway is a type of overflow structure that allows excess water to flow over the dam or reservoir. It consists of a series of concrete or steel troughs that are built on the upstream side of the dam. These troughs are designed to direct the flow of water away from the dam and safely release it downstream.

Advantages of Trough Spillway

- Efficient Water Discharge: Trough spillways are known for their high discharge capacity, allowing large volumes of water to be safely released from the reservoir. This is particularly important during periods of heavy rainfall or when the dam is near its maximum water storage capacity.

- Flexibility in Design: Trough spillways can be designed to accommodate different flow rates and water levels. This flexibility allows engineers to adapt the spillway to changing conditions and ensure the safe release of water.

- Erosion Control: The design of trough spillways includes measures to control erosion and prevent damage to the dam and surrounding areas. The flow of water is carefully directed to minimize erosion and protect the integrity of the dam structure.

- Cost-Effective Solution: Trough spillways are generally more cost-effective compared to other types of spillways, such as ogee or shaft spillways. They require less construction materials and are easier to maintain.

Bhakra Dam's Trough Spillway

The Bhakra Dam has been provided with a trough spillway to manage the excess water flow from the reservoir. The spillway consists of a series of concrete troughs that are designed to handle the high discharge capacity of the dam. During periods of heavy rainfall or when the reservoir reaches its maximum storage capacity, the trough spillway safely releases the excess water downstream, preventing overtopping of the dam and potential damage to the structure.

Overall, the inclusion of a trough spillway in the Bhakra Dam design ensures efficient and safe water management, contributing significantly to irrigation and hydroelectric power generation in the region.