Rajasthan, India’s largest state by area, is home to significant river systems such as the Banas River, Jawai River, and the Chambal River. These rivers serve as lifelines, providing essential drinking water and supporting irrigation in the region. This article highlights the five biggest and most famous dams in Rajasthan, showcasing their importance and unique features.
1. Bisalpur Dam
Location: Tonk District
River: Banas River
Height: 40 meters
Year of Completion: 1999
Bisalpur Dam, a gravity dam situated in the Tonk district, is a major source of drinking water for Jaipur. It stands as one of the most renowned dams in Rajasthan and a beautiful attraction in the region. The construction of the dam was completed in two phases. Phase 1 aimed at supplying water to the villagers, while Phase 2 focused on enhancing irrigation facilities. The dam, with its significant height and capacity, plays a crucial role in meeting the water needs of the region. The project comprises of concrete dam 574 meter long with maximum height of 38.50 meter with gross storage capacity of 1095.84 Mucm and live storage capacity of 1040.95 Mcum.dam on the Banas River near Deoli in Tonk district, Rajasthan.
2. Mahi Bajaj Sagar Dam
Location: 16 kilometers from Banswara
River: Mahi River
Height: 43 meters
Year of Completion: 1983
Mahi Bajaj Sagar Dam is the second largest dam in Rajasthan, built across the Mahi River. Named after Shri Jamnalal Bajaj, the dam was constructed for water supply and hydroelectric power generation. The construction began in 1972 and the dam became operational in 1983. The power station, which started functioning in 1986, significantly contributes to the region’s electricity needs.
The Mahi Bajaj Sagar Dam is a dam across the Mahi River and is located 16kms from Banswara town in Banswara district Rajasthan. It is the second largest dam in Rajasthan and is named after Jamnalal Bajaj. The dam has an installed capacity of 140 MW.
3. Rana Pratap Sagar Dam
Location: Rawatbhata, Rajasthan
River: Chambal River
Height: 53.8 meters
Year of Completion: 1970
Rana Pratap Sagar Dam, one of the major dams on the Chambal River, is located in Rawatbhata. It is the second largest dam built on the Chambal River and a key part of the Chambal Valley Project, a government initiative for river development. Named after the legendary warrior Maharana Pratap of Rajasthan, the dam includes a power station that has been generating hydropower since February 1970. The 172 MW capacity hydroelectric powerhouse established on the Rana Pratap Sagar dam on the Chambal river.
4. Meja Dam
Location: Bhilwara, Rajasthan
River: Unspecified
Height: Unspecified
Year of Completion: Unspecified
The Meja Dam, located in the Mewar region, is the largest dam in Bhilwara, Rajasthan. It is surrounded by a natural green mount park, making it a scenic attraction. The lake formed by the dam is home to numerous mammals and birds, adding to its ecological significance. The design capacity of the dam is 2930 mcft and water received in 2007, 2008, 2009 was 140 mcft, 21 mcft, 31.67 mcft respectively.
5. Jawai Dam
Location: Near Sumerpur town, Pali District
River: Jawai River
Height: Unspecified
Year of Completion: 1957
Jawai Dam is the largest dam in western Rajasthan, constructed between 1946 and 1957 over the Jawai River. The hills around the dam are known for their population of Indian leopards and jungle cats. Jawai Dam is a major water supplier for Jodhpur city and parts of Pali district, playing a vital role in the region’s water management and wildlife conservation. The dam has capacity of 7887.5 million cubic feet and covers an area of 102,315 acres of cultivable command area.
These dams not only provide essential water resources for drinking and irrigation but also support hydroelectric power generation and contribute to the ecological balance in the region. They are integral to Rajasthan’s infrastructure and are key to sustaining the state’s growing needs.