Kalo Dam is a popular tourist destination in Baripada, Odisha, India. Kalo Dam is located in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha, India. It is a medium irrigation project that was completed in 1982. The dam is built across the Kalo River, which has a catchment area of 153 square kilometers. The dam is 2458 meters long and has a maximum water level of 7770 meters.
The Kalo Dam provides irrigation water to a large area of land in the Mayurbhanj district. It also serves as a source of drinking water for the local population. The dam is a popular tourist destination, and visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding area, as well as the opportunity to go fishing and boating.
Visitors can enjoy boating, trekking, and fishing activities around the dam. The dam also serves as a source of water supply to the nearby areas. Kalo Dam is a well-maintained and well-planned infrastructure, attracting tourists from all over the country. It’s a great spot to relax and unwind, surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of nature.
20 Key features and capabilities of Kalo Dam:

- Strategic Location: Situated on the Baitarani River, the dam is easily accessible and offers breathtaking views of the Keonjhar district in Odisha.
- Concrete Gravity Dam: Standing 49.5 meters (162 feet) tall, the dam is a robust concrete gravity structure designed to withstand immense water pressure and natural forces.
- Hydroelectric Power Plant: The dam houses a 24 megawatt (MW) hydroelectric power plant, making it a significant source of renewable energy.
- High Electricity Generation: Capable of generating up to 110 million units of electricity annually, the power plant contributes significantly to the region’s energy needs.
- Impressive Water Storage: The dam’s reservoir boasts a gross storage capacity of 264 million cubic meters, ensuring a reliable water supply throughout the year.
- Extensive Irrigation Network: Serving around 22,000 hectares of agricultural land, the dam supports local agriculture and enhances food security.
- Vital Domestic Water Supply: The dam provides essential drinking water to nearby towns and villages, improving the quality of life for thousands of residents.
- Flood Control Mechanisms: Advanced flood control systems mitigate the impact of seasonal flooding, protecting lives and property in the region.
- Environmental Monitoring: Sustainable operations are ensured through state-of-the-art environmental monitoring systems that track the dam’s ecological impact.
- Seismic Stability: Designed with seismic activity in mind, the dam’s structure is built to withstand earthquakes, ensuring long-term stability.
- Advanced Automated Control Systems: Operations are streamlined through automation and telemetry systems, allowing for efficient management and monitoring.
- Regular Maintenance and Upkeep: A rigorous schedule of maintenance, inspections, and upgrades ensures the dam’s optimal performance and longevity.
- Visitor Facilities: The dam site offers various amenities, including viewing platforms, walkways, and recreational areas, making it a popular tourist destination.
- Eco-Tourism Potential: Surrounded by a picturesque landscape, the dam attracts eco-tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, boosting the local economy.
- Community Engagement:The dam’s management actively collaborates with local communities on development initiatives and conservation efforts.
- Renewable Energy Integration
Hydropower generation from the dam complements Odisha’s growing portfolio of renewable energy sources. - Research and Development
The dam serves as a testbed for new technologies and research in the hydropower sector, contributing to advancements in the field. - Disaster Response Capabilities
Equipped with robust infrastructure and emergency protocols, the dam is prepared to effectively respond to natural disasters and extreme weather events. - Employment Generation
The construction and ongoing operations of the dam have created numerous job opportunities for the local population, fostering economic growth. - Commitment to Sustainable Development
Aligned with Odisha’s broader goals, the Kalo Dam project focuses on sustainable resource management and inclusive growth.
Conclusion for Kalo Dam Odisha:
The Kalo Dam is not just a vital infrastructure project; it’s a beacon of sustainable development and community engagement. Whether you’re a tourist, a hydropower engineer, or a local resident, there’s something at the Kalo Dam for everyone. Its impact on agriculture and local economies underscores the importance of such projects in regional development. Ready to explore more? Visit Yono Informer for the latest updates and in-depth articles on topics that matter to you.
FAQs
The largest dam in Odisha is the Hirakud Dam.
The Kalo Dam is situated on the Bansadhara River in Odisha.
The Kalo Dam is located approximately 300 km from Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha.
Rengali Dam is count as a 2nd largest dam in Odisha. It is a towering 70.5-meter-high and 1,040-meter-wide behemoth, commands the Brahmani River in Odisha. Its colossal reservoir, the state’s second largest, spans an impressive 37,840 hectares when full, offering a vast expanse of water that reduces to 28,000 hectares at its average level.
The primary purpose of Kalo Dam is to provide irrigation to the agricultural lands in its catchment area. Additionally, it aims to improve water availability for farming, support local livelihoods, and contribute to the region’s economic development.