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Draft:Banbasa Barrage (Mahakari or Sharda Barrage)

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  • Comment: Please include inline citations to prove all of your claims. Furthermore, checked against two AI detectors, both say 100%. Setergh (talk) 13:25, 21 April 2025 (UTC)

Banbasa Barrage
Banbasa Canal Range, Uttarakhand, India
LocaleBanbasa Canal Range, Uttarakhand, India
Characteristics
Total length1,900 ft (579 m)
Height45 ft (14 m)
History
DesignerSir Alexander Cardew
Opened1928

Banbasa Barrage, also known as the Sharda Barrage (in India) or Mahakali Barrage (in Nepal), is located on the Sharda/Mahakali River in the Banbasa town of Champawat district, Uttarakhand, India. The barrage plays a crucial role in regulating water flow for irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and flood control. It also holds significance for bilateral relations between India and Nepal.

History

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The Banbasa Barrage was designed by Sir Alexander Cardew, who also designed the Farakka Barrage in West Bengal.[1] The construction of the barrage began in 1918, and it was completed in 1928 after 10 years of laborious work in challenging terrain. It was constructed with funding from the British government.

Key Features

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Water Management and Irrigation

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The Banbasa Barrage facilitates irrigation over 2.5 million acres of land in both Uttarakhand and Nepal. Water diverted from the Sharda River helps irrigate vast agricultural lands, benefiting both countries.[2]

Hydroelectric Power Generation

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The barrage also generates approximately 100 MW of hydroelectric power, playing a significant role in the power supply for the surrounding regions of India and Nepal.[3]

Flood Control

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The barrage's ability to regulate water flow has proven to be essential in controlling floods, especially during the monsoon season, preventing damage to crops and settlements in both countries.[4]

Cultural Significance

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The surrounding region is rich in cultural and spiritual significance. Temples and shrines dot the area, and the close proximity between the Indian and Nepali sides promotes cross-border cultural exchange.

Tourism and Recreation

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The Banbasa Barrage is a popular tourist destination offering scenic views of the Sharda River and surrounding landscapes. Visitors can engage in boating, picnicking, and other recreational activities while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.

See Also

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References

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  1. ^ Joshi, Naresh (2023-08-13). "Beautiful Banbasa Barrage: A Gateway 0f Nepal". Retrieved 2025-04-17.
  2. ^ PTI (2024-07-08). "Water released from Uttarakhand dams, rain in catchment areas cause flooding in six U.P. districts". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 2025-04-17.
  3. ^ "Sharda canal water level drops, impacts power generation & irrigation in Uttarakhand & UP". The Times of India. 2024-06-17. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 2025-04-17.
  4. ^ "Sharda Barrage in spate due to widespread rainfall in river catchment areas". ANI News. Retrieved 2025-04-17.
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  • [Link to official webpage or additional resources]