Consider the following statements regarding Hirakud Dam: It is located...
Overview of Hirakud Dam
The Hirakud Dam is a significant multipurpose river valley project located across the Mahanadi River in the state of Odisha, India. It is one of the longest earthen dams in the world and has played a crucial role in the development of the region since its construction.
Statement 1: It is located across the Mahanadi River in Odisha.
This statement is correct. The Hirakud Dam is indeed located across the Mahanadi River, which is one of the major rivers in India. It is situated near the city of Sambalpur in the state of Odisha.
Statement 2: It is the longest earthen dam in the world.
This statement is also correct. The Hirakud Dam holds the distinction of being the longest earthen dam in the world. It stretches for about 25.8 kilometers, making it an engineering marvel. The dam was constructed between the years 1948 and 1957, under the supervision of renowned engineer Sir M. Visvesvaraya.
Significance of Hirakud Dam
The Hirakud Dam serves multiple purposes and has played a crucial role in the overall development of the region. Some of its key significance includes:
1. Irrigation: One of the primary objectives of the dam is to provide water for irrigation purposes. The reservoir created by the dam has a storage capacity of approximately 5,900 million cubic meters, which helps in meeting the agricultural water requirements of the region.
2. Hydroelectric Power Generation: The dam has a power generation capacity of 307.5 MW. It houses two powerhouses, the Burla Power House and the Chipilima Power House, which generate electricity through hydroelectric power stations. This has contributed significantly to the power supply in the state.
3. Flood Control: The dam has greatly aided in flood control along the Mahanadi River. It helps in regulating the flow of water during heavy rainfall and prevents excessive flooding in downstream areas. This has been crucial in mitigating the impact of floods and protecting lives and infrastructure.
4. Navigation: The reservoir created by the dam acts as an inland waterway, facilitating navigation and transportation. It has enabled the movement of goods and people, connecting various regions and boosting trade and commerce.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both statements regarding the Hirakud Dam are correct. It is indeed located across the Mahanadi River in Odisha, and it holds the distinction of being the longest earthen dam in the world. The dam's multi-purpose nature has significantly contributed to the region's agricultural development, power generation, flood control, and navigation.