Enguri Dam
Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti
The Enguri Dam, located on the Enguri River in Tsalenjikha, Georgia, is the world's second highest concrete arch dam, standing at 271.5 meters tall. Constructed between 1961 and 1987, it forms a crucial part of the Enguri hydroelectric power station (HES), which supplies nearly half of Georgia's electricity. The dam's unique design and massive scale make it an engineering marvel, combining Soviet-era ambition with modern hydroelectric technology. Situated north of the town of Jvari, the dam is notable not only for its height but also for its cultural heritage status in Georgia. The power station includes 20 turbines with a total capacity of 1,320 MW, contributing significantly to the region's energy needs. Despite geopolitical complexities, with the power station partly located in breakaway Abkhazia, the dam remains a symbol of industrial achievement and regional cooperation. Its impressive arch design and the surrounding mountainous landscape offer visitors a striking visual experience, blending natural beauty with industrial might.
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Astuce: Visitors should plan to visit during spring or summer for better weather and accessibility. While the dam itself is a functional infrastructure site, guided tours may be available to learn about its engineering and history. It's advisable to check for any required permissions or restrictions due to the dam's strategic importance and location near sensitive territories. Advance arrangements for visits can enhance the experience, and travelers should respect all safety guidelines around the dam area.
Faits intéressants
- •Enguri Dam is the world's second highest concrete arch dam at 271.5 meters tall.
- •It supplies approximately 46% of Georgia's total electricity consumption.
- •The hydroelectric power station has 20 turbines with a nominal capacity of 66 MW each, totaling 1,320 MW.
- •Construction began in 1961 and the dam became operational in 1978, with completion in 1987.
- •The dam is located in Georgian-controlled Upper Svanetia, while the power station is partly in breakaway Abkhazia.
- •The dam was inscribed in the list of cultural heritage of Georgia in 2015.
- •Radioisotope thermoelectric generators used for remote radio relays near the dam led to a radiological accident in 2001 due to lost sources.
Histoire
The idea for a major hydroelectric dam in the region was initially proposed by Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev, who favored a dam on the Bzyb River but was advised against it due to coastal erosion risks.
Construction of the Enguri Dam began in 1961 and it became operational in 1978, with completion in 1987.
Post-Soviet inspections in the 1990s revealed the need for urgent repairs, leading to significant international funding and rehabilitation efforts through the 2000s.
The dam's construction and operation have been influenced by regional political changes, including Georgian independence and the conflict involving Abkhazia.
In 2015, the dam was recognized as part of Georgia's cultural heritage, underscoring its historical and engineering significance.
Guide du lieu
Arch Dam Structure1961-1987
The main concrete arch dam stands 271.5 meters tall and is a prime example of Soviet-era engineering, designed to hold back the Enguri River and create a reservoir for hydroelectric power generation.
Enguri Hydroelectric Power StationCompleted 1987
Located downstream in the Gali District of Abkhazia, this power station contains 20 turbines with a total installed capacity of 1,320 MW, generating nearly half of Georgia's electricity supply.
