Tehri Dam, built on the Bhagirathi River in Uttarakhand, is the highest dam in India with a height of 261 meters and ranks as the sixth highest in the world. It is the primary structure of the Tehri Hydro Project, designed for multiple purposes. The dam aims to generate 2,400 MW of power, provide irrigation to 6,000 km² of land, and supply 270 million gallons of drinking water to Delhi and cities in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
Approved in 1972 and construction initiated in 1978, the Tehri Dam faced significant environmental controversies during its development. The main dam is set to produce 2,000 MW of electricity upon completion. Additionally, a smaller dam located 14 km downstream at Koteshwar will generate another 400 MW. Together, these projects form a vital part of India’s hydroelectric and water resource strategy.