Tillari Dam Water Level Today (1st April 2026)

The Tillari Dam, also known as the Tillari Irrigation Project, is a significant water resource situated on the Tillari River, a tributary of the Kali River, located in the Dodamarg taluka of Maharashtra, near the Goa-Maharashtra border. The project is a joint venture between the governments of Goa and Maharashtra, aimed at providing irrigation and drinking water to both states.

Construction and Features

Construction Period: The project was initiated in the late 1980s and was completed in the early 2000s.
Type: The Tillari Dam is an earthfill dam.
Height: The dam stands at 42.7 meters.
Length: It extends over a length of 846 meters.
Capacity: The reservoir has a total storage capacity of approximately 226 million cubic meters.
Catchment Area: The catchment area of the dam is about 211.6 square kilometers.
Spillway: The spillway has a capacity to discharge 4,380 cubic meters per second.

Purpose

Irrigation: The primary purpose of the Tillari Dam is to provide irrigation facilities to the agricultural lands in North Goa and parts of Maharashtra. It helps irrigate thousands of hectares of farmland, boosting agricultural productivity in the region.

Water Supply: The dam also supplies drinking water to various towns and villages in both Goa and Maharashtra, addressing the water scarcity issues faced by these regions.

Hydroelectric Power: Although the main focus is on irrigation and water supply, the dam also supports small-scale hydroelectric power generation.

Water Dispute with Neighbor States

Inter-State Agreement: The Tillari Dam project is a collaborative effort between Goa and Maharashtra, governed by an inter-state agreement. However, disputes have arisen regarding the equitable distribution of water.

Water Allocation: Conflicts over water allocation have been a point of contention. Farmers and authorities in both states have occasionally clashed over the sharing of water, especially during dry seasons when water availability is limited.

Resolution Efforts: Both state governments have periodically held discussions and negotiations to resolve these disputes, aiming to ensure fair water distribution and maintain harmonious relations.

Controversies

Displacement and Rehabilitation:
The construction of the Tillari Dam led to the displacement of several villages in Maharashtra. Many families were relocated, and while compensation was provided, there were complaints about inadequate support and delays in the rehabilitation process.

The quality of rehabilitation sites and the provision of necessary amenities were also points of contention, with displaced families facing challenges in adapting to their new environments.

Environmental Impact:
The project led to the submergence of extensive forest areas, impacting local biodiversity. Various species of flora and fauna were affected, and the ecological balance of the region was altered.

Concerns over sedimentation in the reservoir have been raised, which can reduce the dam's water storage capacity and affect its long-term functionality.

Water Management and Distribution:
Disputes over the management and equitable distribution of water have persisted. Both states have accused each other of unfair water allocation, leading to periodic tensions.

Farmers in both Goa and Maharashtra have expressed concerns over inconsistent water supply, which affects their agricultural activities and economic stability.

Legal and Administrative Issues:
Legal battles over land acquisition and compensation have been ongoing. Some landowners claim that the acquisition process was not transparent and that they were not adequately compensated.

Questions regarding adherence to environmental and social regulations during the construction and expansion phases have also been raised, with activists demanding stricter compliance and accountability.

Tourism

Scenic Beauty: The area around Tillari Dam is known for its scenic beauty, attracting nature lovers and tourists. The lush greenery, serene environment, and the reservoir itself make it a popular spot for picnics and recreational activities.

Tourist Activities: Activities such as boating, fishing, and nature walks are popular among visitors, contributing to the local tourism industry.