Written By: Ujjwal Matoliya
Hydroelectric power is one of the most important renewable energy sources in India. It uses the energy of flowing or falling water to generate electricity. Chhattisgarh, a mineral-rich and river-rich state of central India, has significant potential for hydroelectric power generation due to its network of rivers, dams, and reservoirs.
The major rivers of the state include the Mahanadi, Hasdeo River, Indravati River, Shivnath, Arpa, Kelo, and others. These rivers provide suitable geographical and hydrological conditions for constructing dams and hydroelectric projects.
This chapter explains hydroelectricity in Chhattisgarh in detail, including major projects, working principles, advantages, disadvantages, environmental impact, and future prospects.
1. Introduction to Hydroelectric Power
Hydroelectric power is generated by converting the potential energy of stored water into mechanical energy and then into electrical energy.
Water stored at height in a dam has potential energy. When released, it flows downward due to gravity. This flowing water rotates turbines, which are connected to generators. The generator converts mechanical energy into electricity.
Hydropower is considered:
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Renewable
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Eco-friendly
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Cost-effective in long term
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Reliable
India is one of the leading producers of hydroelectric power in the world, and Chhattisgarh contributes to this through its river-based projects.
2. River System of Chhattisgarh
Chhattisgarh is often called the "Rice Bowl of India" because of its fertile plains and river network. The state is located in central India and has a tropical monsoon climate with heavy rainfall during the monsoon season.
Major Rivers:
1. Mahanadi
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Originates in Dhamtari district
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Flows through Chhattisgarh and Odisha
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Major river for irrigation and hydro projects
2. Hasdeo River
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Tributary of Mahanadi
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Important for Hasdeo Bango Project
3. Indravati River
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Major tributary of Godavari
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Flows through Bastar region
These rivers provide strong water flow, which is essential for hydroelectric generation.
3. Major Hydroelectric Projects in Chhattisgarh
3.1 Hasdeo Bango Dam (Minimata Bango Project)
Location:
Korba District
River:
Hasdeo River
Installed Capacity:
Approximately 120 MW
Purpose:
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Hydroelectric power generation
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Irrigation
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Flood control
Description:
Hasdeo Bango is one of the largest and most important hydroelectric projects in Chhattisgarh. It stores a large amount of water in its reservoir. The dam helps regulate river flow and ensures water availability throughout the year.
It supplies electricity to industries in Korba and nearby regions.
3.2 Gangrel Dam (Ravishankar Sagar Project)
Location:
Dhamtari District
River:
Mahanadi River
Installed Capacity:
Around 10 MW
Uses:
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Electricity generation
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Irrigation
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Drinking water supply
Gangrel Dam is one of the longest dams in the state and plays a crucial role in agriculture.
3.3 Dudhawa Dam
Location:
Kanker District
River:
Mahanadi River
Purpose:
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Irrigation
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Hydroelectric power
It helps in agricultural development and supports rural electrification.
4. Working of a Hydroelectric Power Plant
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Working of a Hydroelectric Power Plant |
Step-by-Step Process:
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Dam Construction – Built across a river.
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Reservoir Formation – Water is stored behind the dam.
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Intake Gate Opens – Water flows through penstock.
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Turbine Rotation – Flowing water rotates turbine blades.
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Generator Activation – Turbine shaft rotates generator.
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Electricity Production – Electrical energy is generated.
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Transformer – Voltage increased.
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Transmission – Electricity supplied to consumers.
5. Types of Hydroelectric Plants
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Storage Type
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Run-of-River Type
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Pumped Storage
Chhattisgarh mainly uses storage-type hydroelectric plants.
6. Advantages of Hydroelectric Projects
1. Renewable Energy
Uses water cycle.
2. No Air Pollution
No harmful gases released.
3. Supports Agriculture
Provides irrigation facilities.
4. Flood Control
Controls excess water during monsoon.
5. Employment Generation
Creates jobs during construction and operation.
7. Disadvantages
1. High Initial Cost
Dam construction is expensive.
2. Displacement
Villages may be submerged.
3. Environmental Impact
Affects wildlife and forests.
4. Dependence on Rainfall
Low rainfall reduces power generation.
8. Environmental Impact
Hydroelectric projects can cause:
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Deforestation
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Loss of biodiversity
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Soil erosion
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Change in river ecosystem
However, compared to thermal power plants, hydroelectric power is cleaner and more sustainable.
9. Contribution to Chhattisgarh’s Development
Hydropower projects support:
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Industrial growth in Korba
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Rural electrification
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Irrigation in agricultural regions
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Economic development
Korba district is known as the "Power Capital of Chhattisgarh" because of multiple power plants.
10. Future Prospects
Chhattisgarh has potential to:
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Develop small hydro projects
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Modernize existing dams
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Use advanced turbines
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Improve water management systems
The government is focusing on renewable energy expansion.