ANS:A - Bhakra dam

The Bhakra Dam is one of the most significant and well-known dams in India, located on the Sutlej River in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Here's an explanation of the Bhakra Dam:

1. Purpose: The Bhakra Dam was built primarily for multipurpose uses, including hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, flood control, and water supply for domestic and industrial purposes. It serves as a crucial water management infrastructure in the region.
2. Construction: Construction of the Bhakra Dam began in 1948 and was completed in 1963. It was a massive engineering project undertaken by the Government of India. The dam is a concrete gravity dam, which means it relies on its weight and structure to resist the horizontal pressure of water.
3. Dimensions: The Bhakra Dam is one of the highest gravity dams in the world, standing at a height of 226 meters (741 feet) above the riverbed. The length of the dam is about 518.25 meters (1,700 feet) and its width at the base is 30.48 meters (100 feet). The reservoir created by the dam, known as the Bhakra Reservoir, has a capacity of about 9.34 billion cubic meters.
4. Hydroelectric Power Generation: One of the primary purposes of the Bhakra Dam is to generate electricity. It has several powerhouses associated with it, with a total installed capacity of 1,325 megawatts (MW). The power generated from the dam is utilized for both domestic consumption and industrial purposes.
5. Irrigation: The Bhakra Dam plays a crucial role in irrigation by providing water to the extensive network of canals in the region. It has facilitated agricultural development and increased agricultural productivity in the states of Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan.
6. Tourism: Apart from its utilitarian purposes, the Bhakra Dam has also become a popular tourist destination. The dam and its reservoir attract tourists who come to enjoy boating, fishing, and other recreational activities. The scenic beauty of the surrounding area adds to its appeal as a tourist spot.