In Pics: The Mysterious Hirebhaskara Dam In Karnataka That Reappears Every Summer

Where: Shivamogga district, Karnataka, India

Nearby Landmark: Close to Jog Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India.

Best Time to Visit: May and June, when the dam becomes visible as the water level recedes.

Tourism: Popular among trekkers and tourists who seek to explore its historic and picturesque setting.

Construction Period: Between 1939 and 1948.

Inauguration: Officially inaugurated on February 21, 1949 (postponed from February 2 due to Mahatma Gandhi’s death).

Purpose: Initially designed to generate hydroelectric power from the Sharavati River, the dam was built as part of a larger project by the princely state of Mysore.

Disuse: The dam remained functional until the larger Linganmakki Dam was built in the 1960s, rendering the Hirebhaskara Dam obsolete.

The dam was designed with a siphon system, a rare but effective mechanism that doesn't require electrical or mechanical pumps. Equipped with 11 siphons (each 18 feet wide and 58 feet high), this system automatically releases excess water when the reservoir reaches a set level. This clever design ensures there’s no need for human intervention to control the flow of water. The siphons also help prevent flooding by regulating water levels, thus contributing to flood management in the region. The dam was intended to produce 120 MW of electricity, although the project was ultimately superseded by the larger Linganmakki Dam.

The dam lies submerged under the waters of the Linganmakki Reservoir for most of the year, becoming invisible to the public. It reappears when the water level in the reservoir dips during the peak summer months, typically between May and June. During this period, visitors can access and marvel at the dam, surrounded by lush forest and rugged terrain.

The Hirebhaskara Dam is considered an engineering marvel of its time, particularly due to its siphon-based water management system. Though it no longer serves its original purpose, the dam remains a symbol of the engineering prowess of the era and the foresight of civil engineer Ganesh Iyer, who supervised the construction. Today, the dam serves as an interesting relic from the past and a point of curiosity for those visiting the region.

There are no entry fees or security measures around the Hirebhaskara Dam, allowing visitors to explore the site freely. However, extreme caution is advised, as the area can be slippery and dangerous, especially for those visiting with children. Due to its remote nature and lack of regulation, the dam has remained relatively untouched. However, if the site gains more popularity, there may be restrictions or safety measures enforced by the government to manage the growing number of visitors.

The dam is located amidst a natural forest, providing a serene and peaceful atmosphere for those who seek solitude. While it’s a beautiful and serene spot, the lack of control could lead to accidents if visitors are careless. The government may eventually need to step in to regulate the growing interest in the area.