Bhadra Dam also known as Lakkavalli Dam is built over the Bhadra River in Chikkamagaluru district in 1965. Bhadra River is a tributary of Tungabhadra River.
The height of the dam is 59.13 metres (194.0 feet) and length is 1,708 metres (5,604 feet). It can store up to 71.50 billion cubic feet of water. The catchment area is spread over 1,968 km2 (760 square miles).
When the Bhadra Dam was constructed, it submerged 27 villages. But, the dam benefits irrigation, drinking water supply, industrial use, and hydro power generation for the entire population of this region.
The dam has four spillway gates. The river flows through Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.
Marsh crocodiles are found in abundance in the Bhadra River and Bhadra Reservoir. Smooth-coated otters are also found in the reservoir.
The surrounding area of the dam is pristine with birds chirping and flying around. It is sight to behold when the reservoir is full and the gates are fully open.
Place statistics:
Type of place: Dam and reservoir
Situated: Chikkamagaluru district
Distance: 286 km from Bengaluru, 80 km from Chikkamagaluru, 226 km from Mysuru
Transport: Well-connected by road
Facilities: Nil
