Koyna Dam – Lifeline of Maharashtra
Koyna Dam is in the Satara district. It is a sturdy rubble-concrete dam with a surface area of 891.78 sq.km. The dam is constructed on the Koyna river which originates in Mahabaleshwar. This colossal Dam is a ‘lifesaver’ for Maharashtra. It supplies water to a majority of the cities. Consequently, it is a hot favourite of tourists.
Koyna Dam Structure
The completion of the Koyna dam was done in 1964. The technologies available at that time were not enough to build a massive structure like the Koyna dam. In spite of this, the Dam stands in perfect condition today. The height of the dam is 163m. The dam also survived the 1967 earthquake only with a few cracks to complain. The government mended these cracks within no time. The total capacity of the dam is 2,797,400,000 m3. Therefore, it is a structure to be admired.
Scenic Beauty
The location of Koyna Dam is entirely in nature’s proximity. The greenery around the dam is an eye-catcher. The Koyna wildlife sanctuary is nearby. Hence a variety of trees are found around the dam. The structure of the barrier is vast, and the constant gurgling of water is pleasing to the ears. The reservoir of the dam is Shivsagar Lake. Tourists often come here for boating and leisure time. This dam stretches till the coastal Ratnagiri and is an engineering wonder. Many people are just onlookers who visit the dam to be awed by it.
Koyna Dam Hydroelectric Project
The construction of the dam was completed in 1964. Koyna river proves to be a prominent water source. This resulted in the development of the Hydroelectric project. It is one of the most complex dams in India. The hydroelectric project consists of 4 dams with the Koyna Dam being the major contributor. The total power generated is 1960MW. The western ghats are excavated for the storage of the powerhouses of the project. The primary purpose of the hydroelectric plant is providing irrigation to the nearby fields. The technology used in this project was double lake tapping. The Maharashtra State Electricity Board owns this project. The electrical grid takes all the electricity generated. As the dam is a substantial source of water, the surroundings around the dam have developed immensely. The dam area has a variety of biodiversity.
Places to visit near Koyna Dam
1. Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary
An abundant number of species have made the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary their home. The favourable climate and lots of water create adequate conditions for a variety of species to survive here. The Sanctuary hosts a variety of deer and reptile species. Tourists usually trek in the jungles of the sanctuary to be in nature’s proximity. Furthermore, the lush greenery everywhere increases the beauty of this place by manifolds. Altogether, it is a place worth visiting.
2. Ozarde Waterfall
It is a prominent waterfall in the Koynanagar area. Tourists usually trek through the Koynanagar jungles to reach the base of the waterfall. The gigantic nature of the waterfall leaves everyone mesmerized. Enthusiasts typically plan their day starting from treks through the Wildlife Sanctuary which reaches the base of the waterfall. In particular, the Ozarde waterfall is at its best during the monsoon. Hence, the Ozarde Waterfall attracts a commendable crowd in the Monsoon.
3. Nehru Garden
This garden is a memorial tribute to our first prime minister. Koynanagar enjoys a beautiful climate perfect for flora. As a result, the Nehru garden blooms all around the year. It produces a lot of flowers and plants. Thereupon, a small visit to this place can calm and relax you for the whole day.
Route
It is the closest from Satara at a distance of only 86km. Koyna Dam is at a distance of 200km from Pune. All modes of transportation are available. Consequently, one can easily travel to this place. The nearest railway station is the Satara Railway Station.
In essence, the Koyna Dam is surprisingly an awesome structure. A must visit for all the people who love nature’s proximity. To emphasize, it is a must visit in the Monsoon.
Appealing India 
Leave a Reply