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Bhakra Nangal Dam Travel

Bhakra Nangal Dam, Punjab

Larger Than Life

Bhakra Nangal Dam is truly one of the most awe-inspiring attractions in entire Punjab. Started in the year 1948, construction of Bhakra Nangal Dam took 15 years to complete. Not only is this the biggest in India, it is the world's highest straight gravity dam. Situated on Sutluj River on the border between Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, approximately 116 km from Chandigarh, Bhakra Nangal dam provides solutions to power troubles of many cities outside Punjab. With the construction of Bhakra Nangal Dam, another masterpiece came into existence; the huge Gobind Sagar reservoir. Name after the tenth Sikh guru, Guru Gobind Singh, the resevoir covers an area of nearly 40 sq. km.

History

Even though the construction of the dam started in the year 1948 by Sir Louis Dane, it's work was halted in between. It was again resumed by the then Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru in the year 1955. Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru described Bhakra Nangal Dam as 'The Temple of Resurgent India' and dedicated its services for the benefit of entire nation. Built at a total cost of 245 crores, Bhakra Nangal dam is considered a feat in engineering that is hard to be parallaled.

Uses of Bhakra Nangal Dam

A huge load of Power generation is not the only useful function of Bhakra Nangal Dam. It receives water for River Beas and provides it for irrigation in nearby states like Himachal Pradesh and Haryana. It also works as an efficient flood controller for the adjacent areas. There are four main flood gates which are completely in use during heavy rains. Breeding of fishes is also an activity taking place in Bhakra Nangal Dam.

Tourism in Bhakra Nangal Dam

A dam may not sound as a prospective destination for tourism and picnics but Bhakra Nangal Dam will put all your doubts to rest once you visit this human made wonder. 97 Km long and 6 km wide Gobind Sagar lake is one of the most serene places for indulging in picnics. Numerous recreational facilities including boating in the reservoir are arranged which are huge tourist attractions. Water skiing, kayaking, water scooter racing and sailing are the most indulged in activities here. The best time to visit Bhakra Nangal Dam is between October and November.

It is also possible to opt for a stay at Bhakra Nangal Dam as accommodation is available in tourist bungalows and rest houses close to the dam.