Diama Dam, Gravity dam and border crossing in Saint-Louis, Senegal and Mauritania.
Diama Dam is a multi-purpose structure that crosses the Senegal River with a main section of 170 meters containing a lock and spillway gates. The construction includes a 440-meter embankment extension that works together to regulate the river system.
The project began in 1981 and was completed in 1986 as a joint effort between Senegal and Mauritania. Once finished, it became an important tool for managing the Senegal River between the two nations.
The dam represents a joint infrastructure project between Senegal and Mauritania, supporting agricultural communities through water management and irrigation systems.
There is a road crossing for vehicles and a lock operation for river boats wishing to pass through the structure. Daytime crossings work best when the gates are open and staff are present.
The structure filters out ocean saltwater and protects vast farming areas from salt damage. This natural filtering role has made it possible for thousands of hectares of land to remain productive.
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