Maithon Dam is one of the most important engineering landmarks of the Dhanbad region. What makes it special is that it is not just a tourist destination; it is also part of a major river-valley project designed to control floods, support water supply and irrigation, and generate electricity.
10 facts about Maithon Dam
1. One of Southeast Asia's pioneering underground power stations
Maithon is renowned for its underground hydroelectric power station, a notable engineering achievement for its time. The station has an installed capacity of approximately 63.5 MW in technical records.
2. The dam is about 4.4 km long
Technical records list its overall length at approximately 4,427 metres, with a maximum structural height of about 56 metres.
3. It is built across the Barakar River
The Barakar is a major tributary of the Damodar River. Maithon Dam lies roughly 13 km upstream of the Barakar–Damodar confluence.
4. The reservoir covers a vast area
The Dhanbad district tourism website describes the lake as covering around 65 square kilometres. The reservoir is one of the defining features of the local landscape.
5. It was completed in the 1950s
Construction took place from 1951 to 1957, and the dam was inaugurated on 27 September 1957. It became a key part of the Damodar Valley Corporation's river-management programme.
6. Flood control was a major reason for building it
Severe flooding in the Damodar Valley, including the devastating 1942 floods, helped drive the development of an integrated river-control system. Maithon is one of the dams serving this wider purpose.
7. It is a popular boating destination
The lake attracts families, photographers and weekend visitors. Boating and views of the water and surrounding greenery are among its best-known attractions.
8. Its name is associated with the Divine Mother
The name Maithon is commonly linked to “Mai-ka-sthan”, meaning the abode or place of the Mother. Nearby Maa Kalyaneshwari Temple is an important religious destination.
9. The reservoir has scenic islands
Small green islands and lakeside viewpoints add to the area's appeal. Some visitors combine boat rides with a stop near the islands, depending on local boating arrangements.
10. It is part of a larger multipurpose river-valley system
Maithon works alongside other DVC dams, including Panchet, Tilaiya and Konar, as part of a broader programme for flood management, power generation, irrigation and water
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