Xiaowan Dam, Hydroelectric power station in Nanjian County, Yunnan Province, China
Xiaowan Dam is a concrete arch structure across the Lancang River in Yunnan that harnesses flowing water to generate power. Six turbines inside the dam convert the force of the river into electricity for distribution across the region.
Construction began in 2002 and took approximately eight years, with power generation starting in 2010. The project was one of the largest infrastructure developments along the Lancang River.
The construction of Xiaowan Dam led to the relocation of 32,737 residents from the surrounding areas, transforming local communities and their traditional way of life.
The structure sits in a mountainous area best explored during daylight hours. Access to the immediate vicinity may be restricted and sometimes requires special permission from local authorities.
At 292 meters tall, the dam ranks among the world's highest arch structures, with the concrete wall stretching 902 meters across the river valley. Few visitors realize the engineering precision required to hold back such massive volumes of water in a mountainous canyon.
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