Maithon, the name derived from “Mai Ka Sthan” meaning the place of the Goddess( Maa Kalyaneshwari). The natural beauty of Maithon Dam is mesmerizing. The main attraction is the dam, reservoir, and the green surroundings around.
About Maithon Dam
Maithon Dam is the first multi-purpose river valley project of independent India. The underground power station of Maithon is the first of its kind in Southeast Asia.
The dam is built on the Barakar River. The main tributary of the Damodar river acts as a border between the Bengal and Jharkhand. The upper valley of the dam falls in Jharkhand, and the lower part falls in Bengal.
The dam is 50 m high and 4789 m long.
History of Maithon Dam
The government of India had been concerned with the problem of floods in Bengal since 1852. In 1942, during World War II, a flood occurred in the Damodar valley region that cut Calcutta off from the rest of the country for ten weeks. The heavy damage by the floods in the pre-independence period made the post-independent Government of India plan a detailed roadmap to control the flood.
After Independence, plans were passed for Tilaiya, Soon Konar, Maithon, and Panchet dam.
Maithon dam was specifically designed for flood control. As the Damodar river used to flood nearby areas regularly, it was known as The Sorrow of Bengal. Due to the project, it turned into a medium of prosperity for Bengal.
The dam was started way back in 1948. Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru inaugurated the dam in 1957.
Scenic Beauty Of Maithon Dam
The Maithon dam is located on a scenic landscape amidst a serene lake and green forests. The green hills and the blue water make the view picturesque. To watch hills peeping out of water is a sight to behold! The sunrise and sunset provide a magnificent view.
During monsoon, the dam authority opens up the sluice gate. One can see the water flowing out of the dam which is worth seeing.
It is a favorite picnic spot for people in the region. In the winter season, particularly in December and January, the crowd reaches Maithon from distant places for a picnic. People from both Jharkhand and Bengal flock to the dam to have fun with friends and families.
One can enjoy boating with friends and family on the lake. Rowing boat, paddle boating, hi-speed boating options are available.
Apart from that, one could also take a walk in the beautiful green forests around the lake.
Snack shopkeepers around the place sell soft drinks, chips, Jhal Muri, Phuchka, Chaat, ice cream, etc. Ferrywalas also sell plastics toys for kids and balloons in the evening time.
On the down part of the dam, the beautiful Millenium park holds Flower shows during December and January.
When To Visit Maithon Dam
April-June is the hottest month in the region. The Maximum temperature is around 40 degrees. So it is best to avoid these months. The best time to visit Maithon is October-February. The winters can be cold, with the minimum temperature often dropping as low as 5 degrees celsius. The monsoon lasts from July to September. One can enjoy the empty Green-Blue lake and open Dam Gates during Monsoon.
How To reach Maithon Dam
The Maithon Dam is located around 50 km from Dhanbad, Jharkhand. It is just 20 km far from Asansol city, West Bengal.
By Train
Kumardhubi and Barakar are the nearest railway station to Maithon Dam at 7 Km and 11 Km, respectively. To reach Maithon from the other parts of the country, one can set the destination to Dhanbad or Asansol railway station. From there travel by road as both the stations are nearly equidistant from Maithon.
By Air
The closest airport is Kazi Nazrul Islam Durgapur Airport (61 Kms).
Where to Stay
Some budget hotels and resorts are there to stay in the Bengal side near the Kalyaneshwari temple. Asha Resorts, Hotel Shanti Nivas, Barsha hotel are some of the best options in the area.
