Which is the largest dam in Pakistan by volume and capacity?

Tarbela Dam is the largest dam in Pakistan in terms of both volume and storage capacity. It is one of the largest earth-filled dams in the world and a major source of hydroelectric power for the country.

Tarbela Dam is located on the Indus River in the Haripur District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Construction of the dam began in 1968 and it was completed in 1976. The main purpose of the dam is water storage for irrigation, flood control, and electricity generation.

Key features of Tarbela Dam:
- Height: 143 meters (470 feet)
- Length: About 2,743 meters (9,000 feet)
- Type: Earth and rock-filled dam
- Storage capacity: Over 13.69 million acre-feet
- Hydroelectric capacity: Around 4,888 MW

Tarbela Dam plays a vital role in Pakistan's agriculture by supplying water for irrigation to Punjab and Sindh. It also contributes significantly to the national grid through hydroelectric power, which helps reduce dependency on fossil fuels and saves energy costs.

In addition to energy and irrigation, the dam also plays a role in controlling floods in the Indus basin, especially during monsoon seasons. It has multiple tunnels and powerhouses that help manage water flow and electricity production.

In summary, Tarbela Dam is the largest and most important dam in Pakistan, making it essential for the country's economy, power generation, and agriculture. Its contribution to national development is significant and long-lasting.