Moozhiyar Dam

Moozhiyar Dam is a concrete gravity dam located in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, serving as a part of the Kakkad Hydro Electric Project. The dam falls under the HH- (High Height) classification and is built across the Moozhiyar stream, which is a downstream location of the tailrace of Sabarigiri Hydro Electric Project. It is an essential component of the hydroelectric power generation system in the region.

Moozhiyar Dam and the Kakkad Hydro Electric Project

The main purpose of Moozhiyar Dam is to create a reservoir that stores the tail water of Sabarigiri Hydro Electric Project and diverts it to the power station at Kakkad. Additionally, a diversion dam across Veluthode stream, a Kakkad Ar tributary, helps divert water to the water conductor system for the Kakkad Power Station.

The Kakkad Hydro Electric Project, managed by the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB), has an installed capacity of 50 MW and plays a crucial role in meeting the region’s power needs. Responsible officers, including the Executive Engineer, the Assistant Executive Engineer, and the Assistant Engineer, oversee the safety and management of Moozhiyar Dam. The project’s management continues to contribute significantly to the region’s power supply, ensuring a reliable generation of electricity for the surrounding communities.

Moozhiyar Dam, operational since July 1999, serves the Kakkad Hydroelectric Project, generating 50 MW of electricity with an annual output of 262 MU. The dam’s noteworthy physical dimensions include a height of 30.04 meters, a length of 176.5 meters, and a width of 6.40 meters at its crest.

The dam features three radial gates, each measuring 7.62 × 6.70 meters, serving as spillways to control water flow. The dam creates the Moozhiyar Reservoir, with an active capacity of 1.16 MCM and a maximum water depth of 192.94 meters, covering a catchment area of 36.52 km2, providing an essential water source for the hydroelectric power generation process.

Plan Your Visit

Situated on the Angamoozhy – Gavi – Vandiperiyar route, Moozhiyar Dam provides a tranquil and serene atmosphere, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the wonders of the wilderness and enjoy a truly memorable experience. The dam is a captivating spot during the Gavi ride.

Visitors are drawn to this picturesque site, as it provides an excellent opportunity for photography, capturing the beauty of the colorful scenery that envelops the area. Moreover, the journey to Gavi offers the possibility of encountering rare animals, adding an element of excitement to the trip.

It is essential to plan ahead and arrive early at the Angamoozhy ticket counter, as only 30 vehicles are allowed to enter the checkpost in a single day. Moreover, access to Moozhiyar Dam requires permission from the Kerala Forest Department.

[Image source| CC BY-SA 2.5]