Banasura Sagar Dam, Earth dam in Wayanad, India
Banasura Sagar Dam is an earth dam in Wayanad, Kerala, stretching 776 meters (2,546 feet) across the Karamanathodu tributary and built using massive amounts of stone and boulders. The structure holds back a large reservoir surrounded by forested hills and tea estates.
Construction began in 1979 as part of the Banasurasagar Project to relieve water scarcity and supply the Kakkayam hydroelectric power station. The finished structure became the largest earth dam in India.
The name recalls Banasura, the mythical demon king and son of Mahabali, said to have performed penance in the nearby hills. The surrounding mountains also carry his name, linking the landscape to this ancient story.
Reaching the site from Calicut International Airport, 90 kilometers (56 miles) away, involves traveling through Kalpetta, located 21 kilometers (13 miles) from the structure. The approach follows winding hill roads lined with tea estates and forest on both sides.
India's first floating solar power installation was set up on the reservoir and continues to generate electricity. The combination of hydroelectric and solar energy at a single site is uncommon in the region.
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