Kalpong Hydroelectric Project
The Kalpong Hydroelectric Project, also known as the Kalpong Dam, is a landmark piece of infrastructure as it is the only hydroelectric power project in the entire Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Completed and commissioned in 2001 on the Kalpong River—the only river of the Andamans—it serves as a v ital source of renewable energy for the region, particularly for Diglipur and surrounding areas. The project consists of a hybrid dam structure: a Concrete Gravity Dam on the left fork and a Rock-Fill Dam on the right fork of the river. While primarily an industrial and utility site, the surrounding reservoir and the approach channels have created a scenic environment. The large, calm reservoir offers tranquil views, contrasting the dense forest and the mountainous terrain of the Saddle Peak National Park catchment area. Visiting the project provides a unique educational insight into the region's self-sufficiency efforts in power generation. The viewing area near the powerhouse and the dam crest allows visitors to appreciate the scale of this engineering feat in an otherwise remote, ecologically sensitive zone. (Word Count: 400/400):
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1-2 Hours (Observation and photo stop)Place Type:
Hydroelectric Project, Man-Made Reservoir, EngineeEntry Fees:
Entry Fee (Official): Generally, there is NO entry fee to visit the dam site/viewing point. It is a utility area, not a tourist ticketed site.
Photography/Permission:: There are strict security protocols, and taking photographs might be res...Entry Fee (Official): Generally, there is NO entry fee to visit the dam site/viewing point. It is a utility area, not a tourist ticketed site.
Photography/Permission:: There are strict security protocols, and taking photographs might be restricted, especially of the core machinery or certain angles. Seeking permission from the security post is advisable; an official fee is generally not charged for personal photography but commercial photography is restricted.
Local Transport Fare:: The cost is solely the hired transport (taxi/auto) fare from Diglipur Bazaar to the dam site and back (approx. INR 400-800). DO NOT attempt to enter restricted areas.
Timing:
Regular Timings:: The outer observation area is usually accessible during daylight hours (8:00 AM to 4:00 PM). Access to the power house or the dam crest itself is highly restricted for security reasons.
Ideal Visit Time (Photography): Mid-...Regular Timings:: The outer observation area is usually accessible during daylight hours (8:00 AM to 4:00 PM). Access to the power house or the dam crest itself is highly restricted for security reasons.
Ideal Visit Time (Photography): Mid-Morning provides the best light to capture the reservoir and the dam structure clearly, avoiding harsh shadows. A visit during the peak inflow season (post-monsoon, October-November) allows for the most visually impressive view of the reservoir level.
Security Check Time:: Allow extra time for mandatory security checks and for following instructions from the on-duty security personnel.
Special Events:
Dam Commissioning Anniversary:: The project was commissioned on September 1, 2001. Local government offices or the Electricity Department may hold a small, internal ceremony or function on the anniversary to commemorate the project's vital role. This is not a public touris...Dam Commissioning Anniversary:: The project was commissioned on September 1, 2001. Local government offices or the Electricity Department may hold a small, internal ceremony or function on the anniversary to commemorate the project's vital role. This is not a public tourist event.
Local Nabagram Harvest Festival:: The nearby village of Nabagram and other settler communities in the region may host local, traditional harvest festivals, especially related to paddy or coconut cultivation, which offer a non-touristic cultural experience.
Best Photo Spots:
The Dam Crest and Reservoir Edge:: Capturing the vastness of the artificial lake (Reservoir) and the concrete/rock-fill dam structures, contrasting the clean lines of the engineering with the rugged, wild forest of the catchment area.
The Power ...The Dam Crest and Reservoir Edge:: Capturing the vastness of the artificial lake (Reservoir) and the concrete/rock-fill dam structures, contrasting the clean lines of the engineering with the rugged, wild forest of the catchment area.
The Power House Facade:: A photograph of the main Power House structure, emphasizing the building that houses the Francis Turbines, often adorned with the official project sign, giving it a technical and important look.
The Kalpong River Downstream:: A shot of the Kalpong River flowing out from the dam, a symbol of the island's only perennial river and its harnessed power.
Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Engineering Appreciation:: Spending time at the official viewing area (if open) to appreciate the scale and engineering complexity of the hybrid dam structure and the power house, recognizing its vital role in the island's infrastructure.
Reservoir Photography:: Taking photographs of the large, tranquil reservoir, framed by the dense tropical forest, with the dam structure or the hills in the background.
Nature Walk Near the Crest:: Taking a short, permitted walk along the periphery of the dam's access road or crest (following all safety signs and restrictions) to enjoy the fresh air and the view of the downstream river.
Educational Stop:: Visiting the small information plaque or board (if present) to learn about the project's history, construction, and power gen...
Information
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Why Famous:
The Only Hydel Project in A&N:: Its primary fame lies in its status as the first and only hydroelectric project in the entire archipelago. It is a symbol of self-reliance for power generation in the islands, showcasing an example of engineering success in a difficult, remot...The Only Hydel Project in A&N:: Its primary fame lies in its status as the first and only hydroelectric project in the entire archipelago. It is a symbol of self-reliance for power generation in the islands, showcasing an example of engineering success in a difficult, remote location.
Scenic Reservoir and Catchment:: The dam's reservoir has created a beautiful, calm lake-like environment surrounded by the lush green forests of the Saddle Peak region. This picturesque setting, contrasting with the man-made structure, attracts visitors for its unique blend of nature and utility.
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Architecture:
Dam Type and Dimensions::
This is a hybrid structure: a Concrete Gravity Dam on the left fork and a Rock-Fill Dam on the right fork.
Concrete Dam Dimensions:: The concrete dam (Left Fork) has a Length of 138 ...Dam Type and Dimensions::
This is a hybrid structure: a Concrete Gravity Dam on the left fork and a Rock-Fill Dam on the right fork.
Concrete Dam Dimensions:: The concrete dam (Left Fork) has a Length of 138 m (452. 7 ft) and a Height of 34 m (103 ft).
Rock-Fill Dam Dimensions:: The rock-fill dam (Right Fork) has a Length of 146 m (479 ft) and a Height of 27 m (88. 5 ft).
Power House Dimensions:: The power station houses three Francis Turbines and measures 31. 5m x 13. 5m x 10. 0m. The dam impounds the Kalpong River to create a reservoir with a capacity of 15,270,000 m³ and an installed capacity of 5. 25 MW.
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How To Reach:
By Air:: Fly to Port Blair (IXZ). Then, travel to Diglipur.
By Train:: No Train facilities are available.
By Road:: Travel from Port Blair to Diglipur (approx. 300 km) via the ATR. The project is located ... -
Near Tourist Places:
Khudirampur Dam (3 KMS), Jal Tikry Mud Volcanoes (5 KMS), Nabagram Village (1 KM), Diglipur Bazaar (15 KMS), Kalipur Beach (15 KMS), Lamiya Bay Beach (17 KMS), Saddle Peak National Park (Catchment area, 20 KMS), Aerial Bay Jetty (18 KMS), Ross & Smith Islands (30 KMS by sea), Alfred Caves (35 KMS)
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety (Security Protocol): Strictly adhere to all safety and security instructions from the staff. Do not cross any marked barriers or attempt to approach core machinery. The dam site is an industrial area, not a purely recreational one.
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Aerial Bay JettyAlfred CavesRoss & Smith IslandsCraggy IslandKalipur BeachRamnagar BeachDiglipur IslandInterview IslandJal TikryJalgara Kalipur BeachKalpong Hydroelectric Project Khudirampur DamKishori NagarLamiya Bay BeachLandfall Island Wildlife SanctuaryMud Volcanoes of ShyamnagarPathi Level BeachMore PlacesNote:-
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