Stacked rock and stone: India's largest earthen dam stands in Wayanad

Background

The State Electricity Regulatory Commission has faulted the electricity board's October demand forecast and the board has filed revised estimates, which is a reminder of how much of Kerala's water sits behind its dams. The largest earthen dam in India is in Wayanad district. Banasura Sagar is built across the Karamanathodu, a tributary of the Kabani river, and was constructed in 1979. It is raised entirely from massive stacks of rock and stone. The name is taken from the Asura king Banasura, a son of Mahabali, who is said to have kept a severe penance in the hills around it. The reservoir is now a visitor spot known for its views and for boating. It lies about 21 km from Kalpetta, the district headquarters.