Idukki Arch Dam is constructed on which of the following rivers?

Key Points

• The Idukki Arch Dam is built across the Periyar River in Kerala, India.
• It is one of the highest arch dams in Asia and stands at a height of 168.91 meters (554.23 feet).
• The dam is a double curvature arch dam, which means it curves both horizontally and vertically, providing greater strength and stability.
• The Idukki Dam, along with two other dams at Cheruthoni and Kulamavu, creates a massive reservoir that is utilized for hydroelectric power generation.

Additional Information

• Periyar River
  • The Periyar River is the longest river in the state of Kerala, India, with a length of approximately 244 kilometers (152 miles).
  • The river originates from the Western Ghats and flows through the Periyar National Park, providing water to various irrigation projects and hydroelectric power stations.
  • The Periyar River is also known as the "Lifeline of Kerala" due to its importance in providing water for drinking and irrigation purposes.
  • The river is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a significant ecological zone in the region.
• Arch Dam
  • An arch dam is a concrete or masonry dam that is curved upstream in plan, transferring the major part of the water load to the abutments.
  • Arch dams are typically used in narrow, steep-walled canyons where the geological conditions are suitable for withstanding the pressure exerted by the water.
  • Because of the arch shape, the pressure on the dam is transferred to the canyon walls, allowing the dam to be thinner and use less material compared to other types of dams.
  • The engineering design of arch dams requires precise calculations to ensure stability and safety.