Idukki Dam is an amazing Dam, one of the strongest dams in the country, has been specially designed to withstand earthquakes. This Dam is the largest reservoir in Kerala and is located on the Periyar River in Idukki district of Kerala. It is the first arch dam in Asia.
The dam is built across the Periyar River at a height of 555 feet, connecting the 839 m high Kuravan Hill and the 925 m high Kurathimala. The dam has a catchment area of 60 sq km. Although the maximum storage capacity is 74.5 million cubic feet, it can store up to 70.5 TMC. The 780 MW power plant of the project is located at Moolamattom. Moolamattom Power House (750 m) from the top of Nadukani hill is the largest underground power plant in India. The Kerala State Electricity Board owns the dam, which is being built to generate electricity. The Idukki Hydroelectric Project was inaugurated on February 12, 1976 by the then Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi. The area associated with this dam is known as the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary.
Features of Idukki Dam
Idukki Dam is still amazing it consists of three dams, Idukki, Cheruthoni and Kulamavu. The main dam of the project is connecting Kuravan Hill and Kurathi Hill. Two dams were constructed one at Cheruthoni to prevent the water stored in the Periyar from flowing through the Cheruthoni river and another one at Kulamavu to prevent the loss of water through the nearby Kilivallithottu. The dam is arched to withstand the presence, pressure and force of the gorge. Built of concrete, the arch dam is 168.9 meters high. The top is 365.85 m long and 7.62 m wide. The width of the bottom is 19.81 meters. Idukki Dam has no shutters that is another speciality of the dam.
Idukki Dam Project
During the first phase of the project, around 15,000 workers were employed, In 1932, the Superintendent Mr. W.J.John of the Malankara Estate discovered the jungles of Idukki dam project. During the hunt, he met an adivasi named Columban added as a guide for the journey and showed him Kuravan and Kurathi Hills. The Periyar flowing through the hills attracted John. He get an idea of a dam here would be useful for power generation and irrigation. Submitted a report to the Travancore government on the feasibility of the dam.
Various study reports have recommended the construction of a dam. Comprehensive studies were also conducted for the Central Hydropower Commission. The dam was designed in 1961. In 1963, the project was approved by the Central Planning Commission. State Electricity Board took over the responsibility of construction.
Power generation in Idukki Dam
The Idukki Hydroelectric Project generates 780 MW of electricity using 6 turbines of 130 MW .The annual generation is 2398 MU.
Tourist attraction of dukki Dam
Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is located close to the Archdam. In addition to the unique size of the dam, it is also known for its scenic environment. The best time to visit the dam is from August to March, when the water level rises.
10 Popular Tourist Places in Idukki
1. Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary
2. Idukki Arch Dam
3. Calvary Mount: Gorgeous Landscapes
4. Painavu: For Budding Trekkers
5. Ilaveezha Poonchira s
6. Hill View Park
7. Ramakkalmedu-Highest Point In Idukki
8. Vandanmedu: Home To Largest Auction Centers For Cardamom
9.Mangala Devi Temple: Historic Shrine
10. Kulamavu: A Popular Dam
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