Biggest Dam in Maharashtra 2024, List of Top-10

Maharashtra, a state known for its diverse landscapes, is home to some remarkable engineering feats, and among them stands the colossal structure of Jayakwadi Dam– the largest dam in the state. This architectural marvel not only plays a crucial role in water resource management but also stands as a testament to human ingenuity.

Dams of Maharashtra

Maharashtra boasts a rich history of dam construction, hosting over 100 dams, predominantly situated in the Western Ghats. The Jayakwadi Dam, the state’s largest, in Satara, serves Mumbai and Pune. Following closely is the Mulshi Dam in Pune, supplying water to the city. The Bhama Askhed Dam in Raigad, providing water to Mumbai, holds the third spot. These dams are integral for irrigation, flood control, water supply, hydroelectric power, and recreation, reflecting Maharashtra’s commitment to water resource management since the British Raj.

How Many Dams are there in Maharashtra?

The multitude of dams in Maharashtra holds a crucial position in the state’s advancement, addressing both water supply and power generation requirements. Maharashtra boasts a substantial tally of approximately 1821 dams, encompassing completed structures and ongoing construction projects. Among these, 1004 dams, spanning various sizes, are currently in the process of construction, reflecting the state’s commitment to enhancing water resources and energy capabilities.

Biggest Dam in Maharashtra 2024

Jayakwadi Dam, situated on the Godavari River in Maharashtra’s Sambhajinagar district, stands as the largest dam in the state. This multipurpose project primarily serves irrigation needs in the drought-prone Marathwada region, ensuring agricultural prosperity. Additionally, it caters to the water requirements for drinking and industrial purposes in nearby towns, villages, and the Sambhajinagar and Jalna districts. The dam’s surroundings feature a garden and a bird sanctuary, enhancing its significance beyond water management.

Key Facts Related to the Biggest Dam in Maharashtra

Here are some of the key facts related to Jayakwadi Dam, the biggest dam in Maharashtra:

• Location: Jayakwadi Dam, situated in Paithan taluka of Sambhajinagar district, Maharashtra, India, spans the Godavari River.
• Multipurpose Project: Built for irrigation, it caters to drought-prone Marathwada’s agricultural needs, providing water for drinking, industry, and municipalities in Sambhajinagar and Jalna districts.
• Historical Significance: Originally planned during Hyderabad’s rule, shifted 100 km upstream at Paithan after Maharashtra’s formation. Inaugurated on February 24, 1976, by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
• Dam Specifications: Among Asia’s longest earthen dams, Jayakwadi stands 41.30 meters high and stretches over 10 kilometers, boasting a total storage capacity of 2,909 million cubic meters.
• Overflow Records: Having overflowed 18 times, it recorded the highest discharge of 250,000 ft3/s on August 10, 2006.
• Reservoir Name: The dam creates Nath Sagar Jalashay, fed by Godavari and Pravara rivers, forming a reservoir over 55 km long and 27 km wide.
• Siltation Challenges: Approximately 30% of the dam filled with silt, impacting its storage capacity and reducing its life.
• Multipurpose Allocation: 80% of the dam’s water allocated for irrigation, 5-7% for drinking, and the remainder for industrial purposes.
• Irrigation Impact: Through its canal system, Jayakwadi irrigates 237,452 hectares across Aurangabad, Jalna, Beed, Ahmednagar, and Parbhani districts.
• Hydroelectric Power: Features a 12 MW hydroelectric power plant on the right bank, contributing to electricity generation.
• Industrial Supply: Supplies 0.05 MCM water daily to industries in Aurangabad and Jalna MIDC areas, serving as a primary water source for Parli Thermal Power Station.
• Flora and Fauna: The dam’s surroundings host diverse aquatic vegetation and seasonal farming, supporting a rich biodiversity of around 37 flora species.
• Recreational Spaces: Nathsagar Lake’s banks host Dnyaneshwar Udyan, a 125-hectare garden, and Jayakwadi Bird Sanctuary, providing habitats for various bird species, with over 200 birds recorded.
• Conservation Challenges: High water levels in the dam have led to habitat loss for birds in the sanctuary, raising concerns among environmentalists.

Top-10 Biggest Dams in Maharashtra By January 2024

Jayakwadi Dam, located in Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, is the biggest dam of Maharashtra with the storge capacity of 2,171 million cubic meters, followed by Koyna Dam, Wilson Dam, and Radhanagari Dam

Here is the list of top-10 largest dams in Maharashtra by January 2024:

 Maharashtra’s Largest Dam – Jayakwadi Dam

Location: Godavari River, Aurangabad district

Storage Capacity: 2,171 million cubic meters

Jayakwadi Dam, nestled in Aurangabad district on the Godavari River, stands as Maharashtra’s largest dam, boasting a massive storage capacity of 2,171 million cubic meters. Serving crucial roles in irrigation and water supply, this landmark structure plays a pivotal role in the state’s development.

Second Largest Dam of Maharashtra – Koyna Dam

Location: Satara district

Storage Capacity: 2,000 million cubic meters

Koyna Dam, situated majestically in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, secures its position as the state’s second-largest dam. This gravity dam, spanning the Koyna River, not only stands as one of India’s largest but also draws numerous tourists, serving dual purposes of irrigation and hydroelectric power generation for the region.

Third Biggest Dam of Maharashtra – Wilson Dam

Location: Ahmednagar district

Storage Capacity: 563 million cubic meters

Wilson Dam, renowned as Bhandardara Dam, claims the distinction of being Maharashtra’s third-largest dam. Nestled in Ahmednagar district, this dam boasts a substantial storage capacity of 563 million cubic meters, contributing significantly to water resource management in the region.