About Maithon Dam
Maithon Dam is a major multipurpose dam built across the Barakar River at Maithon on the Jharkhand-West Bengal border in Dhanbad district, Jharkhand. Constructed by the Damodar Valley Corporation and commissioned in 1957, it is known for flood control, irrigation and hydroelectric power generation with India's first underground power station. The large reservoir, surrounding hills and island create a scenic lake landscape popular for sightseeing and boating.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a large reservoir formed by the Barakar River surrounded by forested hills. The dam structure, spillway gates and viewpoint areas offer panoramic views of the water spread and an island in the reservoir. Visitors can explore lakeside promenades, enjoy boating on the reservoir, photography, and views of the underground hydel power station area from designated points. The site is developed for day picnics with parks and food stalls nearby.
Key highlights
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Large reservoir on the Barakar River at the Jharkhand-West Bengal border
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Part of Damodar Valley Corporation project commissioned in 1957
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First underground hydel power station in Southeast Asia with 60 MW capacity
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Scenic lake with island and surrounding hills ideal for boating and photography
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Flood control and irrigation infrastructure with panoramic viewpoints
History of Maithon Dam
Maithon Dam was constructed by the Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) as part of the first phase of the Damodar Valley Project modelled on the Tennessee Valley Authority. Built between 1951 and 1957 and inaugurated in 1957, it was designed for flood control, irrigation and power generation. It houses the first underground hydroelectric power station in Southeast Asia with an installed capacity of 60 MW.
Culture & Context
The dam and its reservoir are a major recreational and picnic destination for residents of Jharkhand and West Bengal and form part of the DVC tourism circuit along with nearby temples and lakes.
Route
| By air |
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