Salvajina Dam, Embankment dam and hydroelectric station in Suarez, Colombia.
Salvajina Dam is an embankment dam with a hydroelectric power station on the Cauca River near Suarez. The facility uses three turbines to generate electricity for the region and holds a large reservoir for water storage and flood management.
The dam was completed in 1985 and created a large reservoir that permanently transformed the region. The project became an important power source for western Colombia and changed how water flows through the Cauca Valley.
The construction affected multiple indigenous reservations, including Honduras in Morales municipality and Cerro Tijeras in Suarez municipality, leading to population displacement.
Visitors can view the structure and reservoir from various viewpoints around the area. Access is limited due to security regulations, so it is wise to check conditions before visiting.
At 1,145 meters above sea level, the concrete-face rock-fill structure rises 148 meters high, creating Lake Salvajina for water storage and power generation.
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