Gezende Dam, Hydroelectric arch dam in Mersin Province, Turkey
Gezende Dam is an arch dam crossing the Ermenek River in Mersin Province, built to store water and generate electricity for the region. The structure rises substantially above the river valley and creates a reservoir behind its curved concrete wall.
Construction began in 1979 under Turkish State Hydraulic Works and was completed in 1990. The project represented efforts to harness river resources for power generation and water management in the region.
The dam represents Turkish engineering capabilities in water management, demonstrating the nation's commitment to renewable energy infrastructure development.
The dam sits in a mountain valley and is reachable from the Mersin region by driving through hilly terrain. Visiting requires a car since public transport to the site is limited.
The dam's curved concrete design relies on the natural valley walls to support its structure, reducing the amount of material needed. This clever integration of engineering with natural topography makes it a notable example of adapted construction.
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