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Source- This post on Tungabhadra Reservoir has been created based on the article “Broken crest gate of Tungabhadra reservoir washes away hopes of farmers in command area” published in “The Hindu” on 13 August 2024.
Why in News?
Recently, Tungabhadra reservoir filled up due to a good monsoon in the Sahyadri range.
About Tungabhadra Reservoir
| Aspects | Description |
| About | 1. The Tungabhadra Reservoir, also known as the Tungabhadra Dam is a multipurpose dam located near Hospet in the Bellary district of Karnataka, India. 2. It was built across the Tungabhadra River, a major tributary of the Krishna River. |
| Construction and Design | 1. The Tungabhadra Dam was constructed in 1953 as a joint venture between Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. 2. The dam is constructed using stone and earth, extending approximately 2.4 kilometers in length and standing 49.39 meters tall. |
| Purpose | It was designed primarily to store water for irrigation, power generation, and flood control. |
| Capacity and Storage | 1. The reservoir has a gross storage capacity of around 3.7 billion cubic meters (131 TMC ft). 2. The catchment area feeding the reservoir spans approximately 28,177 square kilometers. 3. The reservoir supports the irrigation of over 1.2 million acres of farmland across Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. |
| Hydroelectric Power Generation | 1. The dam houses a hydroelectric power station with an installed capacity of 72 MW. 2. The generated electricity supports nearby regions, contributing to their electrification and industrial development. |
| Environmental and Social Impact | 1. The reservoir plays a critical role in the agrarian economy by providing water for the cultivation of crops such as rice, sugarcane, and cotton. 2. The large water body supports diverse flora and fauna, contributing to the local ecosystem. However, the construction led to the displacement of communities and environmental changes in the region. |
| Tourism and Cultural Significance | 1.The reservoir is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its scenic beauty and proximity to the historic Vijayanagara ruins at Hampi. 2. The serene waters, lush greenery, and surrounding hills make it an ideal spot for picnics and relaxation. |
| Challenges and Future Prospects | 1. The reservoir faces challenges such as siltation and water management issues. 2. There is a need to modernize the irrigation infrastructure to ensure the long-term sustainability of the reservoir and its benefits to the region. |
UPSC Syllabus: Geography
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