Hirakud Dam

    Hirakud Dam, located near Sambalpur in Odisha, is a monumental structure and the longest dam in India. Spanning approximately 25.8 kilometers, it stretches across the Mahanadi River, creating one of the largest artificial lakes in Asia. Completed in 1957, Hirakud Dam was a significant post-independence engineering project aimed at flood control, irrigation, and power generation. The dam features several observation points like Gandhi Minar and Nehru Minar, offering panoramic views of the expansive reservoir and surrounding landscapes. It also supports a thriving ecosystem, providing habitat for diverse flora and fauna. Hirakud Dam is a vital lifeline for the region's agriculture and a major tourist attraction for its impressive scale and scenic beauty.