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Meghalaya Umiam Lake
Umiam Lake is located in the northern direction of Shillong in Meghalaya state of India. This dam was constructed over the Umiam River during 1960. Complete catchment area of this dam is even more than 225 sqkm. This dam is serving and shouldering dual responsibilities in the area, providing of fresh drinking water to the population residing in surrounds and generation of hydro electricity. A lake is also constructed in support of this dam. This dam is also the first and largest power generating plant of eastern India.
History
Umiam Lake was constructed in 1960. It took 7 years to complete in all respects. The dam was badly needed and the recycling of water was not being done in the area due to unavailability of any such mechanical installation. Natural flow and force of water required utilization in production of hydro electricity. Seeing all the circumstances, the dam was constructed and completed in 1960. This was the biggest achievement in the field of water management. After construction of dam, the water of Umiam Lake got under control and gradually a power plant was also established on the banks of this dam. The power generation capacity of this plant is 44 MW with two units having capacity of 22 MW each unit.
Technical Portion
The turbines established at this dam are powerful and provides a tough spinning against natural force of flow of water. 23.1 mtr thick walls have been constructed to take the load of water. In the hilly areas, normal flow of water always much than the dams in plain areas. Cubic capacity of holding the water in this dam is 1023.5 TMC. During 1997, production of electricity was stopped due to failure in one of the unit but after six months the same was got functional.
Attraction
This Lake is one of the best picnic spots in Meghalaya. Various types of adventurous facilities have been provided by the tourism department to enhance the tourism in this area. Boating, Scooting and Water Cycling facilities are available in this lake.
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