Industrial Visit to Kalammawadi Dam and Radhanagari Dam Powerhouse

An industrial visit to Kalammawadi Dam and Radhanagari Dam Powerhouse was organized by the Department of Civil Engineering of Ashokrao Mane Polytechnic, Vathar to provide students with practical exposure to large-scale water resource projects and hydroelectric power generation systems. The visit aimed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world engineering applications.

The Kalammawadi Dam, also known as the Dudhaganga Dam, is constructed across the Dudhaganga River near Tilarinagar in Kolhapur district. It is an earth-cum-concrete gravity dam with a height of 73.6 meters and a length of 1,280 meters. The dam serves multiple purposes such as irrigation, drinking water supply, and hydroelectric power generation. During the visit, students observed the dam’s key structural components including the spillway gates, earthen embankment, and control systems. They learned about the methods used for water discharge, flood control, and reservoir management. The site engineers explained various aspects of dam construction, soil compaction, and maintenance practices adopted for ensuring dam safety.

The next part of the visit was to the Radhanagari Dam and its powerhouse, which is built on the Bhogawati River. This dam, constructed under the guidance of Rajarshee Shahu Maharaj, is a masonry gravity structure standing 42.68 meters high and 1,143 meters long. It plays a crucial role in irrigation and hydroelectric power generation for the region. At the powerhouse, students gained insights into the working principles of hydroelectric systems, observing how the potential energy of stored water is converted into electrical energy through turbines and generators. Engineers at the site demonstrated the control room operations and explained the functioning of penstocks, control gates, and safety mechanisms.

The visit provided students with valuable practical knowledge about dam engineering, hydropower systems, and water management techniques. They were able to connect theoretical concepts such as hydraulic design, load distribution, and energy conversion with their practical applications. Overall, the visit to Kalammawadi Dam and Radhanagari Dam Powerhouse was highly informative and enriching, giving students a clear understanding of the technical, structural, and environmental aspects of dam projects. The Department of Civil Engineering extends sincere gratitude to the authorities and engineers at both sites for their guidance, cooperation, and insightful explanations that made the visit a great learning experience.