The Tungabhadra Dam also known as Pampa Sagar is a water reservoir constructed across the Tungabhadra river in Hospet-Koppal confluence. It is a multipurpose dam used in irrigation, electricity generation, flood control etc. It is the largest stone construction dam and one of the only two non-cement dams in India.
This dam was built with a combination of mud and limestone. It was a joint project between governments of Madras and Hyderabad states. The construction was started in 1949 and completed in 1953.
History:
The area suffering from hunger of Rayalseema, then containing the districts of Bellary, Anantapur, Kurnool and Cuddapah(Kadapa) affected the attention of British engineers as early as 1860.
To get rid of the famine(hunger) in these districts, proposals were made to utilise the waters of Tungabhadra in 1860. The water of Tungabhadra is to be utilised through a storage reservoir and a system of canals to provide irrigation to the farmlands.
After several proposals and plan agreements, this project was formally inaugurated by laying foundation stones on 28 February 1945. The left side of the dam was inaugurated by Nawab Azam Ja, the prince of Berar and on the right side of the dam by the Baron Sir Arthur Hope, Governor of Madras.
How To Reach:
T B Dam (Tungabhadra Dam) junction is the nearest bus stop to the dam with a distance of 5.4 KM. From the bus stop, you can take a local taxi or a auto rickshaw to reach the dam.