Tehri Dam
Located in the lap of the Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand, Tehri Dam is not just a testament to human engineering but also a symbol of natural beauty, cultural depth, and eco-tourism. Constructed on the confluence of the Bhagirathi and Bhilangana rivers, Tehri Dam stands as India’s tallest dam and one of the tallest in the world. This massive hydroelectric project, rising to a height of 260.5 meters (855 feet), powers much of Northern India, while also transforming the landscape around it into a hub for tourism, sports, and cultural exploration.
Tehri Dam is more than a feat of civil engineering—it’s a place where the forces of nature, energy, and heritage converge. The reservoir formed by the dam, known as Tehri Lake, has become a destination in its own right, drawing nature lovers, adventure seekers, and travelers from across the globe.
Geographic and Structural Significance
Tehri Dam is located near New Tehri, the only planned town in Uttarakhand. The dam is situated at the site of the submerged Old Tehri town, which once stood at the confluence of the rivers. The reservoir, Tehri Lake, spans over 52 square kilometers and stores about 2.6 billion cubic meters of water.
The dam provides hydroelectric power, irrigation, and drinking water to several northern states including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Haryana. With a power generation capacity of 1000 MW, the dam is a cornerstone of energy infrastructure and regional development.