Bhavani Sagar Dam, Erode

Bhavani Sagar Dam, also known as the Lower Bhavani Dam, ranks among the world’s largest earthen dams constructed using compacted earth. It is located about 16 kilometres west of Sathyamangalam in Erode district, Tamil Nadu. Built across the Bhavani River, a major tributary of the Kaveri River, the dam forms the vast Bhavanisagar Reservoir. Because of its massive structure and scenic surroundings, the dam attracts both tourists and nature enthusiasts.

Engineering & Importance

As one of the largest earthen dams in Asia, Bhavani Sagar Dam plays a crucial role in irrigation and water management. Moreover, the reservoir supports agriculture across large parts of Erode and nearby districts. The surrounding greenery and water views also make it a popular spot for photography and short trips.

History of Bhavani Sagar Dam

Bhavani Sagar Dam is the second largest dam in Tamil Nadu, next only to the Mettur Dam. Significantly, it was among the first major irrigation projects launched in India after independence. Construction began in 1948 and was completed in 1955, while full operations started in 1956. The project was completed at an estimated cost of 21 million, marking a major milestone in India’s irrigation development.

Descriptive features of Bhavani Sagar Dam

• The dam is fed water by the Southwest and Northeast monsoons. It receives water from two catchment areas in the Western Ghats. The Eastern catchment area includes the Upper Bhavani, Avalanche and Emerald Lakes, Kundha, Gedhai, Pillur, Nellithurai and Lower Bhavani. The Western catchment area includes Portimund, Parson’s Valley, Pykara, Glenmorgan, Chinkara, Maravakandy, Moyar, Thengumarahatta and Lower Bhavani.
• The dam supplies water to two canals: (a) Kalingarayan Canal which in turn feeds Arakkankottai and Thadampalli channels (b) Lower Bhavani Project
• The dam had two hydroelectric power stations, one on the east bank canal and the other on the Bhavani River. East power station has a capacity of 8 megawatts totaling to a capacity of 16,000 megawatts .
• There is a peaceful garden in front of the dam with a play area for children, a small boating ride and a basic eatery spot. The entry to the park is charged at Rs. 5 per head.
• The view atop the dam is restricted now due to safety reasons. The place is a quiet getaway from the bustle of city life. One could also prefer to get the fresh fishes from the dam.
• Bhavani Sagar Dam is open on all days from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM.

How to reach Bhavani Sagar Dam

Bhavani Sagar Dam is located at 16 kilometres west to Sathyamangalam, 35 kilometres from Gobichettipalayam and 36 kilometres north-east to Mettupalayam. The distance to Coimbatore is around 80 kilometres which is the nearest Airport.