How Many Dams in Pakistan which is Largest Dam ?
Pakistan has 150 dams, the Tarbela Dam is the largest dam in Pakistan and one of the biggest earth-filled dams in the world. Pakistan is a country that heavily relies on its water resources for agriculture, electricity, and daily use.
Introduction to Tarbela Dam
Tarbela Dam is situated on the Indus River within the Haripur area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. It was constructed primarily for water storage and hydroelectric power generation. The dam plays a crucial role in managing Pakistan’s water resources and supporting the nation’s energy needs.
Pakistan Famous Dams
| Dam Name | Location | Main Purpose | Year/Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tarbela Dam | Haripur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa | Hydropower, Water Storage | 1976 |
| Mangla Dam | Mirpur, Azad Jammu & Kashmir | Irrigation, Hydropower | 1967 |
| Diamer-Bhasha Dam | Gilgit-Baltistan (Under Construction) | Water Storage, Hydropower | Under Construction |
| Warsak Dam | Near Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa | Irrigation, Hydropower | 1960 |
| Hub Dam | Karachi & Lasbela (Sindh/Balochistan) | Water Supply (Mainly for Karachi) | 1981 |
| Mirani Dam | Kech District, Balochistan | Irrigation, Flood Control | 2006 |
| Sabakzai Dam | Zhob District, Balochistan | Irrigation, Water Supply | 2007 |
| Kalabagh Dam | Mianwali District, Punjab | Hydropower, Water Storage, Irrigation | Proposed (Not Built) |
Construction and Features
The building of Tarbela Dam began in 1968 and was completed by 1976. It extends nearly 2,743 meters (9,000 feet) in length and rises to a height of 143 meters (470 feet). It creates a large reservoir with a storage capacity of around 11.62 billion cubic meters of water, making it vital for irrigation and flood control.
Hydroelectric Power Generation
Tarbela Dam houses multiple hydroelectric power plants. It has an installed capacity of over 4,700 megawatts, supplying a significant portion of Pakistan’s electricity demand. This makes it one of the largest contributors to the country’s renewable energy sector.
Importance for Agriculture and Water Management
Besides power generation, the Tarbela Dam plays an essential role in regulating water flow for irrigation. It provides water to millions of acres of farmland in Punjab and Sindh, supporting Pakistan’s agricultural economy. The dam also helps prevent floods during the monsoon season by controlling the flow of the Indus River.
Environmental and Social Impact
While Tarbela Dam has brought many benefits, it also posed challenges such as displacement of local communities and changes in river ecology. Efforts have been made to manage these impacts through rehabilitation programs and environmental monitoring.
Conclusion
Tarbela Dam stands as a symbol of Pakistan’s efforts to harness natural resources for development. Its role in power production, irrigation, and flood control is critical for the country’s economic growth and sustainability. As Pakistan continues to develop, the Tarbela Dam remains a key asset in managing the nation’s water and energy needs effectively.
