Which of the following is the oldest dam in India?

Appeared in: Haryana CHO - 2022

Explanation

Kallanai Dam, also known as the Grand Anicut, is the oldest dam in India and one of the oldest water-regulator structures in the world still in active use.
It was originally constructed by the Chola king Karikalan around the 2nd century CE, making it an ancient structure.
Located on the Kaveri River in Tamil Nadu, its primary purpose was to divert river water for irrigation across the delta region.

Option A: Bhakra Dam is a modern dam completed in 1963. While it is a significant structure, it is not the oldest.
Option C: Koyna Dam was completed in 1964. It is one of the largest dams in Maharashtra but is a 20th-century project.
Option D: Bhavani Sagar Dam was built in 1955, post-independence. It is much more recent than the Kallanai Dam.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain History of major dams in India as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
The Kallanai Dam is a remarkable example of the advanced engineering and water management skills of the ancient Chola dynasty, having functioned for nearly two millennia.
Its design as a diversion weir to distribute water for agriculture, rather than a large storage reservoir, represents a sustainable water management strategy that is still studied today.
What if the question asked for India's highest dam? The answer would be the Tehri Dam in Uttarakhand. If it asked for the highest gravity dam, the answer would be the Bhakra Dam.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core requirement of the question, which is to find the 'oldest dam' in India from the given list.
Scan the options: Bhakra Dam, Kallanai Dam, Koyna Dam, and Bhavani Sagar Dam.
Access general knowledge about Indian history and major infrastructure projects. Recognize that dams like Bhakra and Koyna are well-known post-independence projects from the 20th century.
Note that the name 'Kallanai' has ancient Tamil roots, suggesting a much older origin compared to the others.
Based on this historical context, deduce that the Kallanai Dam, dating back to the Chola dynasty, is significantly older than the modern dams listed.
Select Kallanai Dam as the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full Haryana CHO - 2022

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.