History
The Anjunem Dam is a vital water reservoir located in the Sanquelim region of North Goa, India. Constructed across the Keri River, a tributary of the Mhadei River, the dam serves multiple purposes, including irrigation, water supply, and flood control. It is situated in a picturesque setting, surrounded by the Western Ghats, making it an attractive spot for nature enthusiasts.
Construction and Features
Construction Period: The Anjunem Dam was constructed in the 1970s and completed in the early 1980s.
Type: It is an earthen dam with a masonry spillway.
Height: The dam stands at approximately 54 meters.
Length: The length of the dam is around 1,072 meters.
Capacity: The reservoir has a storage capacity of about 44.76 million cubic meters.
Catchment Area: The dam has a catchment area of around 42 square kilometers.
Spillway: The dam has an un-gated spillway designed to handle large volumes of water, particularly during the monsoon season.
Purpose
Irrigation: The primary purpose of the Anjunem Dam is to provide irrigation facilities to the surrounding agricultural areas. It supports the irrigation of several thousand hectares of farmland, enhancing agricultural productivity and supporting local farmers.
Water Supply: The dam is a crucial source of drinking water for the nearby villages and towns. It ensures a consistent water supply throughout the year, addressing the water needs of the local population.
Flood Control: The dam helps in flood control by regulating the flow of the Keri River, especially during the monsoon season when the region experiences heavy rainfall.
Environmental and Social Impact
Ecosystem: The creation of the Anjunem reservoir has led to the formation of a large water body that supports a diverse range of aquatic life. The surrounding forested areas are home to various species of flora and fauna, contributing to the region's biodiversity.
Displacement: The construction of the dam resulted in the displacement of some local communities.
Although efforts were made to compensate and rehabilitate the affected families, there have been complaints regarding the adequacy and timeliness of the support provided.
Tourism
Scenic Beauty: The Anjunem Dam is located in a picturesque area surrounded by the lush greenery of the Western Ghats. The serene environment and scenic landscapes make it a popular destination for tourists and nature lovers.
Recreational Activities: The dam area offers various recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking. The calm waters of the reservoir and the beautiful surroundings provide a perfect setting for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Current Status
Maintenance: The Goa government's Water Resources Department is responsible for the maintenance and operation of the Anjunem Dam. Regular inspections and maintenance activities are carried out to ensure its structural integrity and efficient functioning.
Water Levels: The water levels in the Anjunem Dam fluctuate with the seasons, with the reservoir typically filling up during the monsoon season and water levels reducing during the dry season.
Controversies
Displacement and Compensation: The construction of the Anjunem Dam led to the displacement of several local communities. Although compensation and rehabilitation efforts were made, some displaced families reported inadequacies in the support provided, leading to dissatisfaction and protests.
Environmental Concerns: The submergence of forested areas due to the reservoir's creation resulted in the loss of biodiversity and natural habitats. Environmental activists have raised concerns about the long-term ecological impact of the dam on the region.
Water Management: There have been occasional disputes over water management and allocation, particularly during periods of drought. Farmers and local residents have sometimes clashed with authorities over the fair distribution of water resources.


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