Bargi Dam

Bargi dam

About:

Bargi Dam is one of the pioneering projects in a series of major dams constructed on the Narmada River in Madhya Pradesh, India. The Narmada, the largest river in the state, stretches 1,312 km, with 1,072 km flowing through Madhya Pradesh. The Bargi Dam plays a critical role in managing this portion of the river and was conceptualized in 1968 by the Central Water and Power Commission to enhance irrigation across 2,980 square kilometers and support hydropower generation of 105 MW.

Situated along the Jabalpur-Nagpur NH-7 highway, the dam is approximately 40 km (about 45 minutes) from Jabalpur city. Tourists flock to Bargi Dam for its picturesque views and water sports activities, including boating and fishing.

The construction of the dam commenced in 1974 and was completed in 1990. The dam stands at a height of 69 m and stretches 5.4 km in length, forming a reservoir that is about 75 km long and 4.5 km wide, encompassing an area of 267.97 km2 across Jabalpur, Mandla, and Seoni districts when filled to its Full Reservoir Level (FRL) of 422.76 m.

As one of the first major dams completed on the Narmada, Bargi Dam is located near Bijora Village, about 40 km southwest of Jabalpur. The dam site is open to visitors year-round, offering recreational opportunities and stunning natural scenery. The local fishing community has also established co-operative societies to improve their livelihoods.

While the dam serves as a significant water source for the region and supports power generation, it has also had social implications. The construction led to the displacement of around 7,000 families, affecting 162 villages across the Mandla, Seoni, and Jabalpur districts. Various measures were implemented for compensation, though many residents faced challenges in relocating and adapting to their new circumstances.

Despite these challenges, the Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation (MPSTDC) recognizes the tourism potential of Bargi Dam. The area has been developed to promote water sports, and the MP Tourism provides accommodation and dining options at the site, with additional facilities like cruise rides, motorboat rides, and speedboat rides available for visitors. Bargi Dam is an excellent stop for travelers en route to Kanha National Park, offering a unique blend of adventure and natural beauty.