By exploreodisha.in 
Introduction
Located near Sambalpur in the state of Odisha, the Hirakud Dam stands as one of India’s most significant and iconic engineering achievements. It is not just a dam; it is a symbol of independent India’s determination to overcome natural challenges and harness its resources for development. Stretching across the mighty Mahanadi River, the dam has played a pivotal role in flood control, irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and regional development.
Historical Background
The story of Hirakud Dam begins in the aftermath of a devastating flood. In 1937, a catastrophic flood ravaged parts of Odisha, then part of the Bengal Presidency, leading to massive loss of lives and property. This tragedy underscored the urgent need for a large-scale flood control mechanism. The idea of building a dam on the Mahanadi River was first proposed by the eminent civil engineer, Sir M. Visvesvaraya.
After years of surveying and planning, the project gained momentum under the leadership of India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. The dam’s foundation was laid in 1948, a year after India gained independence. Construction took place over a span of nearly a decade, and the dam was completed in 1957, becoming the first major multipurpose river valley project of independent India.
Geographical and Structural Overview
Hirakud Dam is located around 15 kilometers from Sambalpur city. It stretches approximately 25.8 kilometers in length, making it one of the longest earthen dams in the world. Including the dykes, the dam spans over 56 kilometers.
Key features of the Hirakud Dam:
- River: Built across the Mahanadi River
- Total Length: 25.8 km (including earthen dams and concrete structures)
- Height: 60.96 meters (from the foundation)
- Reservoir Area: Covers more than 743 square kilometers at its full capacity
- Catchment Area: 83,400 square kilometers
- Power Generation: Hydroelectric power stations with a capacity of over 300 MW
The dam consists of both earthen and masonry structures and features several sluice gates and spillways to control water discharge.
Hirakud Reservoir: A Lifeline
The vast reservoir formed by the dam, known as the Hirakud Reservoir, is a lifeline for the surrounding regions. It is one of the largest artificial lakes in Asia, stretching over 55 km in length and containing numerous islands and submerged villages.
The backwaters of the reservoir are home to rich biodiversity, and the surrounding areas have become a thriving ecosystem for birds, fish, and other wildlife. The reservoir also supports inland fisheries and provides water for domestic and industrial use.
Irrigation and Agriculture
One of the primary reasons behind the construction of Hirakud Dam was to provide irrigation facilities to drought-prone regions of Odisha and neighboring states. The dam currently irrigates over 1.6 million hectares of land through a well-planned canal system.
The Hirakud canal network has transformed the agriculture of western Odisha, enabled multi-crop cultivation and reduced the dependency on unpredictable monsoon rains. Crops such as paddy, pulses, and vegetables are grown in abundance in the command areas of the dam.
Hydropower Generation
Hirakud Dam plays a crucial role in Odisha’s power sector. The hydroelectric power station at Burla generates over 300 megawatts of clean electricity, meeting the needs of thousands of households and industries. This renewable energy source has significantly contributed to rural electrification and industrial growth in the region.
Flood Control
The Mahanadi River was notorious for its seasonal flooding, which used to cause extensive damage in the delta regions of Odisha. Hirakud Dam was designed as a flood moderation project to regulate the flow of water during monsoons.
With its 64 sluice gates and 34 crest gates, the dam effectively controls the release of floodwaters, preventing downstream disasters. Over the decades, the dam has saved millions of lives and property from destructive floods.
Economic and Regional Impact
The dam has been a cornerstone of economic development in western Odisha. With assured irrigation, reliable power supply, and flood protection, the region has witnessed rapid progress in agriculture, industry, and infrastructure.
Industries such as aluminum plants, textile mills, and paper factories have flourished in and around Sambalpur due to the availability of water and electricity. The dam has also boosted tourism, attracting visitors for its scenic views, boating, and birdwatching opportunities.
Displacement and Controversy
While Hirakud Dam brought prosperity to many, it also had a darker side. Over 150,000 people from nearly 400 villages were displaced during its construction. Many of them were not adequately compensated or rehabilitated, leading to long-standing grievances.
This aspect of the dam’s history continues to be a sensitive issue and serves as a reminder of the need for humane resettlement policies in large-scale infrastructure projects.
Tourism and Environmental Value
Hirakud Dam is a popular tourist destination, drawing thousands of visitors annually. The top of the dam offers a panoramic view of the massive reservoir and lush green surroundings. The Minar (Gandhi Minar and Nehru Minar) on either end of the dam are architectural landmarks, offering observation towers with spiral staircases.
The reservoir area is also a haven for bird lovers. During winter, migratory birds flock to the wetlands of Hirakud, making it a hotspot for birdwatching and nature photography.
Additionally, small islands like Cattle Island and Bat Island within the reservoir have become ecological treasures and are explored by researchers and tourists alike.
Recent Developments and Future Plans
In recent years, there has been growing concern over the dam’s aging infrastructure and siltation in the reservoir. The government has taken steps for the modernization and maintenance of the dam under the Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP) supported by the World Bank.
Efforts are also being made to promote eco-tourism and convert the dam site into a smart tourism hub with improved accessibility and amenities.
Conclusion
Hirakud Dam is much more than a feat of engineering — it is a living legacy of India’s post-independence resolve and vision. From protecting lives against floods to transforming agriculture and generating clean energy, the dam continues to serve millions across the region.
While acknowledging its shortcomings, especially in terms of displacement, the overall contribution of Hirakud Dam to Odisha’s development is immeasurable. It stands tall as a monument of resilience, innovation, and hope for future generations.