Konar Dam, in Hazaribagh district, constructed in 1955 for the purpose of irrigation and water supply. water storage capacity of 330 million cubic metres.
The Konar Dam located in Vishnugarh in Hazaribagh district of Jharkhand state is the second of the four dams included in the first phase of Damodar Ghati Nigam. This dam is built on the Konar River, a tributary of the Damodar River.
Which is located near Vishnugarh village at a distance of about 57 kilometers from Bajaribagh district headquarters. The construction work of this dam started in 1946 and was completed in 1955. This dam was first opened in 1955 i.e.
This dam was inaugurated by Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. This dam was constructed by the Indian Water Commission. The main purpose of building this dam was irrigation, flood control, and wind production. Apart from this, it was done for the management of water resources and for agricultural work.
Introduction to Konar Dam
Voorduin envisaged the construction of eight dams in the Jharkhand. Its story is that here in Jharkhand, Voorduin envisaged the construction of eight dams and a barrage. Four of them were built. Named Tilaiya, Konar, Maithan and Panchet.
Apart from this, it was decided to build Durgapur Barrage. The first dam was built in Tilaiya on the Barakar river in 1953 and inaugurated. The second dam, Konar Dam on Konar river, was completed in 1955. It was inaugurated by the first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.
Historical importance of the dam
The “Konar Mahotsav”, recognized in the name of the Konar river, presents local culture and heritage. This festival promotes cultural awareness by focusing on the art, culture, and environmental conservation of the region.
This place attracts tourists coming here. Forests and many gardens can be seen around this dam.
Geographic Information
| SL. NO. | Konar Dam | Multi Purpose Dam |
| 1. | Height | 48.77 Metres (160.00 Ft.) |
| 2. | Length | 4,535 Metres (14,879 Ft.) |
| 3. | Location | Hazaribag District, Jharkhand, India |
| 4. | Opening Date | 15 October 1955 |
| 5. | Reservoir Surface Area | 27,92 Sq Km. |
Construction information
The foundation stone of the project was laid by the then Governor of Bihar, Jagannath Kaushal. The cost of completing the construction work was fixed at Rs 12 crore. But this amount was considered a significant investment for that time.
However, according to the time, the amount fixed for the construction work could reach Rs 2176 crore according to the present. A total of eight dams were to be built in this amount. The chief engineers and workers here played an important role.
The chief engineer of this project was Mr. K.L. Rao, who successfully completed this dam using his expertise and experience. Apart from this, many local and outside laborers also contributed to this project.
The construction cost of Konar Dam was financed by the Indian government. The total cost of the project was quite high according to the parameters of that time, but considering its benefits, it proved to be a significant investment.
Objective and Benefits
Initially the purpose of the dam was to provide water for irrigation, flood control and later for power generation. But as time passed, the need for this dam increased. The water of this dam is used to overcome the water shortage in the city.
Apart from this, it is used the most in agricultural work. For fish farming and many types of entertainment activities in this dam, tourists come here for picnics and adventures. You can also come here with family and friends.
Economic impact
Many people have got employment opportunities in many areas around this Konar Dam. Due to which the local people are improving their economic condition every day by starting their own small businesses. The shortage of water for agriculture has been overcome for the local people.
Along with this, they are running their livelihood with the help of boating facilities here. In which the government also gets allowance. Many people have opened many types of shops here on the banks of the dam and nearby. Tourists definitely buy something or the other when they come here.
Environmental impact
Due to the presence of this Konar Dam, there is a lot of rain in the forests around here. Due to which the forest here remains green throughout the year. The water of Konar River never dries up when water is released from this dam.
Due to which water keeps flowing in this river throughout the year. The environment here is completely clean. Throwing garbage has been banned here. Due to the presence of this dam, one gets a chance to see many birds here.
And wildlife is also seen. Many types of local flora and fauna in the forests near the dam depend on this dam. This is the biggest means of water conservation.
Attraction for tourists
There are many means of viewing and entertainment here in Konar Dam. Such as boating, water sports competition, fishing, power generation, water waterfalls, dense forest where one can have fun.
This place is considered the best for its aquatic biodiversity, natural beauty and recreational activities like boating and picnic. Konar Dam attracts nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.
Nearest Tourist Places
- suraj kund
- Hazaribag Lake
- Canary Hill
- Hazaribag wildlife sanctuary
- sanskriti museum and art gallery
- galwaan valley
- lalpur chowk LPC
- Chadwa Dam
- Sitagarh Hill
- Rajrappa
- Salparni waterfall
Safety measures
Konar Dam is said to be the safest. Here, its measurement is done daily to reduce the overflow of water. An officer has been appointed to oversee it. This place is also considered safe for tourists. Tourists are prohibited from visiting some parts here.
The main reason for this is its safety. Safety instruction boards have been installed at various places. It is mandatory for everyone to follow them. Iron boundaries have been constructed everywhere on the dam’s embankment.
So that no accident occurs while viewing the dam from a height. Special attention has been taken for your safety. Going deep into the water here while bathing is strictly prohibited.
Future plans
In the past few years, the local government and the tourism board have taken initiatives to promote Konar Dam as a tourist attraction.
This includes increasing the infrastructure around the dam, such as building parks and providing facilities for visitors. To promote tourism, local and cultural festivals are often organized by regional authorities, which attract more visitors to the area.
Konar Dam in the Map
Konar Dam Related FAQs
1. When and why was Konar Dam built?
Konar Dam was built in 1955, the main purpose was to provide water for irrigation, flood control and later power generation.
2. What is the main purpose of the dam?
Irrigation, flood control, fish farming, overcoming water shortage and power generation.
3. Is there a risk of flood from Konar Dam?
There may be a risk of flood if the water of Konar Dam is released from the gate simultaneously.
4. What facilities are available for tourists?
Boating, fishing, picnic, shooting, photography, means of entertainment, adventure, clean environment and beautiful nature.
5. Where is Konar Dam located?
Konar Dam is located in Vishnugarh, 57 km from Hazaribagh district.
6. When was Konar Dam built?
Konar Dam was built in 1955.
7. What is the water storage capacity of Konar Dam?
The water storage capacity of Konar Dam is about 330 million cubic metres.