Mettur Dam

Mettur dam is the largest dam in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is also known as Stanley Reservoir. The dam has been constructed across the river Cauvery which is the longest river in Tamil Nadu.

Mettur means “town with crests and troughs”. The name is due to the rocky and undulating surface structure. The Mettur dam has a total length of 1700 meters. It provides the town with irrigation facilities and generates hydro-electric power. It was constructed in the year 1934. The Stanley Reservoir behind the dam is a popular tourist attraction. Surrounded by hills, it offers a spectacular view. Upstream from the dam is Hogenakkal Falls. There is a park at the base of the dam called Ellis Park maintained by the Tamil Nadu Public Works Department.