The Nagarjuna Sagar Project in Telangana recently faced a significant challenge due to an unexpected surge in water inflow. To manage this situation, authorities made the decision to open all 26 crest gates, allowing the excess water to be released downstream. This article delves into the reasons behind this action, the historical significance of the dam, its technical specifications, and its multifaceted role in irrigation, power generation, and tourism.
Reasons for Lifting the Crest Gates
The decision to lift all 26 crest gates of the Nagarjuna Sagar Project was prompted by a substantial inflow of 414,014 cusecs, largely due to heavy water inflow from the Srisailam reservoir. This action was necessary to prevent the reservoir from surpassing its maximum capacity of 590 feet, as the water level had already reached 587.50 feet. The combined outflow from all gates was recorded at 422,292 cusecs.
Historical Background of Nagarjuna Sagar Dam
Constructed between 1955 and 1967, the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam is a monumental structure across the Krishna River, straddling the border between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. It was part of India’s early efforts to achieve agricultural self-sufficiency and hydroelectric power generation. The project was inaugurated by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and saw significant contributions from local leaders and the community.
Technical Specifications of the Dam
The Nagarjuna Sagar Dam is a masonry dam standing 124 meters tall and 1.6 kilometers long, equipped with 26 flood gates, each measuring 13 meters in width and 14 meters in height. The dam’s reservoir boasts a gross storage capacity of 11.472 billion cubic meters, with an effective capacity of 6.92 cubic kilometers. This structure is a joint venture between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, providing irrigation and electricity to both states.
Irrigation and Power Generation
The Nagarjuna Sagar Project plays a crucial role in irrigating vast areas of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The right canal (Jawahar canal) stretches 203 kilometers, irrigating 4,520 square kilometers, while the left canal (Lalbahadur Shastri canal) extends 179 kilometers, irrigating 4,080 square kilometers. Additionally, the dam supports a hydroelectric power plant with a capacity of 815.6 MW, contributing significantly to the national grid.
Tourism and Cultural Significance
Nagarjuna Sagar Dam is a popular tourist destination, attracting thousands of visitors, especially during the monsoon season when the gates are open. Nearby attractions include Nagarjunakonda, Ethipothala Falls, and Buddhavanam. The area also holds historical significance due to the ancient Buddhist settlement of Nagarjunakonda, which was relocated before the reservoir’s flooding.
Environmental Impact and Future Potential
The diversion of Krishna River’s flow for irrigation and water supply has led to ecological changes, including groundwater contamination and reduced flows into the Krishna River delta. However, there is potential to harness the dam’s dead storage capacity and optimize power generation. Innovative methods such as Water Powered Pumps (WPP) and Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Plants (PSHP) could enhance water management and energy efficiency.
Conclusion
The recent decision to lift the crest gates of the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam underscores the importance of effective water management in large-scale infrastructure projects. As a critical resource for irrigation, power generation, and tourism, the dam continues to play a vital role in the region’s development. Ongoing efforts to address environmental challenges and optimize the dam’s potential will ensure its continued contribution to the prosperity of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
