INTRODUCTION The Hirakud Dam project, a landmark post-independence initiative, is a multi-purpose river valley project on the Mahanadi River, serving as a crucial source for flood control, irrigation, and hydroelectric power generation in Odisha, India. The reservoir formed by the dam , Hirakud Lake, is one of the largest artificial lakes in Asia. It is the longest earthen dam in the world, spanning 25.8 kms (16.0 miles) including dykes, built on the Mahanadi River and is the first ... The Hirakud Dam , spanning 25.8 kilometres across the Mahanadi River, was born out of necessity. Once referred to as the ‘Sorrow of Odisha,' the Mahanadi frequently unleashed devastating floods on the coastal plains, culminating in the catastrophic deluge of 1937. Learn about the longest dam in the world, built on the Mahanadi River in Odisha, India. Find out its features, attractions, best time to visit, and how to reach from Sambalpur town. Project Features The multi-purpose Hirakud Dam across the river Mahanadi was constructed for flood control, irrigation and power generation. Hirakud Dam is a composite structure of earth, concrete and masonary. The Main dam having an overall length of 4.8 km spans between hills Laxmidungri on left and Chandli-dungri on the right. The dam is flanged by 21 km long earthen dykes, both on left and right sides to close the low saddles beyond the abutment hills. It has the distinction of being at ...
