Bango Dam (Minimata Hasdeo Bango Project)

 Writted By- Ujjwal Matoliya

🔷 Basic Introduction

• Minimata Hasdeo Bango Project is one of the most important multipurpose dam projects of Chhattisgarh.

• Commonly known as Bango Dam.

• Built to support irrigation, power generation, water storage, and flood control.

• It is among the largest reservoirs in the state.

🔷 Location Details

• 📍 Located in Korba district, Chhattisgarh.

• 🌊 Constructed across the Hasdeo River.

• The Hasdeo River is a major tributary of the Mahanadi River.

• Surrounded by hills, forests, and natural landscapes.

🔷 History & Development

• Construction started in the early 1960s.

• Developed as a large water-resource project to improve agriculture and electricity supply.

• Later named Minimata Hasdeo Bango Project in honor of social leader Minimata.

🔷 Main Objectives of the Project

• ✔️ Provide irrigation water to agricultural fields.

• ✔️ Generate hydroelectric power.

• ✔️ Store water for year-round use.

• ✔️ Control floods during heavy monsoon rains.

• ✔️ Support fisheries and local livelihoods.

🔷 Important Technical Features

• 🧱 Type: Multipurpose dam project.

• 💧 Large reservoir with huge water storage capacity.

• ⚡ Hydroelectric power generation capacity: about 120 MW (approx.).

• 🌧️ Large catchment area collecting monsoon water.

• 🚰 Water supplied through canals to farming areas.

🔷 Irrigation Benefits

• Water released from the reservoir is used for agriculture.

• Helps farmers grow crops even in dry seasons.

• Increases crop production and agricultural stability.

• Supports rural economy and food production.

🔷 Hydroelectric Power Generation

• Water flow is used to rotate turbines and generate electricity.

• Provides renewable energy to the region.

• Reduces dependence on non-renewable energy sources.

• Supports industrial and domestic electricity needs.

🔷 Flood Control Function

• Stores excess monsoon water in the reservoir.

• Controls sudden rise of river water.

• Reduces risk of floods in downstream areas.

• Protects villages and farmland.

🔷 Reservoir & Environment

• Large water body formed behind the dam.

• Helps groundwater recharge and local ecology.

• Surrounded by forests, adding to biodiversity.

• Maintains ecological balance in the area.

🔷 Economic & Social Importance

• Improves agricultural income.

• Creates employment opportunities.

• Encourages fishing activities (fisheries).

• Supports local development and infrastructure.

🔷 Tourism Importance

• Scenic natural location attracts visitors.

• Suitable for:

  • Nature viewing

  • Photography

  • Picnics

  • Eco-tourism development

• Reservoir area is becoming a popular outing spot.