Victoria Dam | Kandy

The Victoria Dam is a major hydroelectric dam located on the Mahaweli River in central Sri Lanka, near the town of Victoria in the Kandy District. It is one of the most significant infrastructure projects in Sri Lanka and plays a crucial role in the country’s energy production, water supply, and irrigation systems.

1. Overview and Location

• Location: The Victoria Dam is situated approximately 25 kilometers east of Kandy, within the central highlands of Sri Lanka.
• River: The dam is built across the Mahaweli River, which is the longest river in Sri Lanka, flowing from the central mountains to the eastern coast.
• Type: The Victoria Dam is a concrete gravity dam. It is the largest dam in Sri Lanka and the centerpiece of the Mahaweli River Development Project.

2. Purpose and Importance

The primary purposes of the Victoria Dam include:

• Hydroelectric Power Generation: The dam is part of the Mahaweli Hydroelectric Complex and is a major source of hydroelectric power in Sri Lanka, helping to meet the country’s electricity demand. The power station connected to the dam has a generating capacity of 210 MW.
• Water Supply and Irrigation: The dam stores a large amount of water, which is used for irrigation in the surrounding areas, especially in the dry zone of Sri Lanka. This irrigation supports agriculture, particularly rice cultivation.
• Flood Control: The dam also helps in regulating water levels and controlling floods in the lower reaches of the Mahaweli River.

3. Construction and History

• Construction Period: The Victoria Dam was constructed between 1986 and 1993.
• Engineer and Design: It was built under the direction of the Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka, with assistance from international contractors and engineers.
• Cost: The total cost of the project was substantial, making it one of the most expensive infrastructure projects in the country’s history at the time.

4. Features of the Dam

• Height and Length: The Victoria Dam stands at 122 meters (400 feet) in height and stretches across 220 meters (720 feet) in length.
• Reservoir: The dam forms the Victoria Reservoir, which is a vast body of water that extends over an area of about 26 square kilometers and has a capacity of 700 million cubic meters.
• Spillway and Tunnel System: The dam features an emergency spillway to release excess water during high rainfall periods. Additionally, it has an extensive tunnel system to direct water to powerhouses and irrigation channels.

5. Scenic Beauty and Tourism

• The Victoria Reservoir is surrounded by lush green hills and forests, offering picturesque views. The area around the dam is a popular spot for nature lovers, photographers, and birdwatchers. Some key points of interest near the Victoria Dam include:
  • Victoria Park: A park located near the dam, providing scenic views of the reservoir and surrounding mountains.
  • Boating: Visitors can engage in boating activities on the Victoria Reservoir, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings.
  • Nearby Attractions: The Victoria Dam is located within a short distance from other scenic spots in the region, such as Riverston, Knuckles Mountain Range, and Sembuwatta Lake.

6. Environmental Impact

• The Victoria Dam has had a significant impact on the local ecosystem. The creation of the reservoir altered the natural landscape, flooding large areas of land and affecting both plant and animal life.
• However, efforts have been made to mitigate the environmental impact, and the dam is part of a broader strategy for sustainable water and energy use.
• Wildlife Habitat: Despite the changes, the surrounding area remains home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, monkeys, and elephants. The lush forested areas around the dam contribute to the biodiversity of the region.

7. Accessibility and Visitors

• Getting There: The Victoria Dam is accessible from Kandy by road, with a 1.5-hour drive through scenic countryside. Visitors can also take a bus to the nearby towns and then use local transport to reach the dam.
• Guided Tours: For those interested in learning about the dam’s operations and its importance, guided tours are available. These tours provide insights into the dam’s role in power generation, water management, and its contribution to Sri Lanka’s infrastructure.

8. Best Time to Visit

• The best time to visit the Victoria Dam is during the dry season, from December to March, when the weather is clear and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
• Rainy season: While the dam itself functions year-round, the rainy season (April to November) may result in heavy rains, which can affect access roads and visibility, though the dam’s spillway may also be activated during this time.

9. Conclusion

The Victoria Dam is not only a critical piece of infrastructure for Sri Lanka but also a remarkable engineering feat nestled in a beautiful natural setting. Its role in power generation, water supply, and flood control has greatly benefited the country. For those interested in Sri Lanka’s hydropower generation or looking for scenic spots to visit, the Victoria Dam offers a unique and captivating experience. Whether you are touring the area for its natural beauty or exploring its engineering marvel, the Victoria Dam is an essential landmark in Sri Lanka’s central highlands.