The Tungabhadra Dam, located in Karnataka, India, is a significant multipurpose dam constructed across the Tungabhadra River, a tributary of the Krishna River.
The project was completed in 1953 and stands as a testament to India’s post-independence infrastructure development efforts. It was built primarily for irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, flood control, and water supply.
The main idea for the Tungabhadra project dates back to the pre-independence era, with the first proposals being made in the early 20th century.
The construction of the dam began in 1945, under the leadership of Sir M. Visvesvaraya, a visionary engineer. The dam also played a crucial role in the Green Revolution in India, contributing to increased agricultural productivity.
Notably, the dam was one of the earliest major projects initiated to boost agriculture and provide a reliable water source for the drought-prone regions of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.
The Tungabhadra Dam is vital for the irrigation of over 1.2 million acres of land in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, supporting the livelihoods of millions of farmers.
It also contributes to power generation by supplying electricity to the surrounding regions. Additionally, the dam is a crucial resource for drinking water and industrial purposes.
Over the decades, it has become a lifeline for the region, fostering agricultural growth, supporting local economies, and helping in flood management.
Its role in regional development and its engineering excellence make the Tungabhadra Dam a significant landmark in India’s infrastructure history.