Kota Barrage

Kota Barrage is the fourth dam in the Chambal Valley Projects series, located approximately 0.8 km upstream of Kota City on the Chambal River. Constructed between 1954 and 1960, this gravity dam serves primarily for irrigation, diverting water to Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh through an extensive canal network. The barrage features 19 spillway gates and spans over 1,000 meters in length, standing as both an engineering achievement and a popular tourist attraction known for spectacular water releases during monsoon season.

Visitors can observe the massive structure spanning the Chambal River with its 19 spillway gates controlling water flow. During monsoon season, the opening of gates creates dramatic frothy water displays accompanied by bridge vibrations. The barrage area offers scenic river views and serves as a viewpoint for observing the Chambal River's powerful flow. The site functions as a bridge connecting both sides of Kota city across the river, allowing visitors to experience the scale of this irrigation infrastructure while enjoying riverside scenery.

Construction of Kota Barrage began in 1954 as part of the larger Chambal Valley Project, a collaborative effort between the governments of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh with central government support. The project aimed to utilize the Chambal River's water for irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and flood control. The barrage was completed and opened in 1960, becoming an integral part of Rajasthan's water infrastructure and serving as the fourth in the series of Chambal Valley dams after Gandhi Sagar Dam, Rana Pratap Sagar Dam, and Jawahar Sagar Dam.