The Idukki Dam: India's Tallest Arched Dam and Its Historical Significance

The Idukki Dam is a remarkable engineering marvel located in Kerala, India. Standing at 168.91 meters or 554 feet, it is one of the tallest and most impressive arch dams in Asia. Constructed and owned by the Kerala State Electricity Board, this dam not only supports a powerful 780 MW hydroelectric power station but also stands as a testament to the ingenuity and progress of modern India.

Geographical and Technical Details

The Idukki Dam is situated on the Periyar River, spanning the ravine between the Kuravan and Kurathi Hills. Technically, it is a concrete double curvature parabolic thin arc dam. Standing between the two mountains – Kuravanmala, standing at 839 meters, and Kurathimala, at 925 meters – the dam is a monumental feat of engineering. From 1975 onwards, the dam has been generating power, officially starting on October 4, 1975.

Constructing a Legacy

The idea of constructing the Idukki Dam for power generation first emerged in 1919. In 1922, during a hunting expedition in the forest, an individual from the ‘Araya’ race, Shri Kolumban, showed the spot of present Arch Dam to the Malankara Estate Superintendent and his friend Thomas. Thomas was deeply impressed by this natural formation and this visit marked the beginning of the dam's conceptualization. A report submitted in 1932 to the Government of Travancore by the Malankara Estate highlighted the feasibility of constructing the dam for power generation.

Support and Collaboration

The construction of the Idukki Dam was a collaborative effort with the Government of Canada providing long-term loans and grants. This external support was crucial in realizing the project. Additionally, the dam was built alongside two other structures at Cheruthoni and Kulamavu, collectively creating an artificial lake of 60 square kilometers. Stored water from this lake powers the Moolamattom Power House, which lies inside nearby rocky caves.

Impact and Legacy

The Idukki Dam marks a significant milestone in Indian engineering and hydroelectric power generation. As part of the Teesta Multipurpose Project, it not only provides hydroelectricity but also plays a crucial role in irrigation. The dam's construction also highlights how historical sites can inspire the creation of modern marvels, making it a vibrant blend of past and present. Furthermore, the project demonstrates the importance of collaborative international efforts in achieving engineering feats.

Conclusion

The Idukki Dam stands as a titan of modern engineering, its towering presence reminding us of the incredible strides made in hydroelectric power generation. Its technical achievements and historical significance make it a cornerstone of India's progress and a testament to the ingenuity of its engineers and planners. For those interested in exploring the wonders of Indian engineering and natural beauty, the Idukki Dam offers a fascinating journey.

Keywords: Idukki Dam, tallest arched dam in India, hydroelectric power station