Sayano–Shushenskaya Dam, Arch-gravity hydroelectric dam in Khakassia, Russia.
The Sayano–Shushenskaya Dam is an arch-gravity structure and hydroelectric power station on the Yenisei River in Khakassia and Krasnoyarsk Krai. The concrete wall rises 242 meters above the riverbed and spans 1074 meters between canyon rock faces.
Construction began in 1963 as part of Soviet infrastructure projects to develop Siberia. The first turbine started operation in 1978, with full completion reached in 1985.
The name Sayano comes from the Sayan Mountains north of the reservoir, while Shushenskaya refers to the town downstream of the structure. Local communities continue to fish in the reservoir and use its water for agriculture along its shores.
Visitor access is limited because the facility continues to operate as an active power station. Travelers should check ahead for guided tour availability and expect long drives through sparsely populated territory.
A disaster occurred in August 2009 when a turbine was destroyed and 75 people lost their lives. The facility has since been completely rebuilt with modern safety systems installed.
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