Hirakud Dam: Mahanadi Basin Water Conservation & Flood Control

The question requires identifying a dam within the Mahanadi basin that serves the dual purposes of water conservation and flood control.

Hirakud Dam is the correct answer. It is constructed across the Mahanadi River in Sambalpur, Odisha. This location places it directly within the Mahanadi river system.

Hirakud Dam's Integrated Functions

• Water Conservation: The massive reservoir behind Hirakud Dam stores significant water resources, utilized for irrigation across vast agricultural lands, meeting industrial water demands, and generating hydroelectric power.
• Flood Control: A primary objective of the dam is to regulate the Mahanadi's flow, thereby reducing the severity of floods in the downstream delta region, particularly during the monsoon season.

Analysis of Other Dams

• Tehri Dam: Located on the Bhagirathi River (Ganga basin), primarily for hydroelectric power and water supply.
• Nagarjuna Sagar Dam: Situated on the Krishna River, focusing on irrigation and power generation.
• Bhakra-Nangal Dam: Built on the Sutlej River (Indus basin), serving irrigation, power, and flood control, but not located in the Mahanadi basin.

Based on its location in the Mahanadi basin and its designed functions, Hirakud Dam is the only option that matches all criteria specified in the question.