Tarbela Pakistan | Tarbela Dam Pakistan | The Powerhouse of Asia
Why Tarbela Pakistan Is So Important
Located in the Haripur District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Tarbela, Pakistan, is home to one of the largest and most iconic dams in the world—the Tarbela Dam. Known for its engineering marvel and energy generation capabilities, Tarbela plays a key part in Pakistan’s water storage and electricity production.
The location, history, structure, and significance of Tarbela are all covered in this guide, along with the most popular facts, images, and attractions for tourists in 2025.
Where is Tarbela Located in Pakistan?
Tarbela City is located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Haripur District, close to Ghazi town. It is located only 50 kilometers northwest of Islamabad, along the Indus River.
It is located under the Tarbela.
Tarbela Dam Pakistan Map
Tarbela Ghazi, Pakistan
Tarbela Cantt, Pakistan
What Is Tarbela Dam Pakistan? A National Asset
Built on the Indus River, the Tarbela Dam is an earth-fill embankment dam. A key component of Pakistan’s hydroelectric infrastructure, it is among the biggest dams in the world in terms of structural volume.
- Construction Started in 1968
- Finalized 1976
- The Indus River
- Tarbela was constructed to
- Water should be stored for irrigation.
- Manage floods
- Produce power
Tarbela Dam Pakistan Capacity and Ranking in the World
- Reservoir Capacity 13.69 cubic km
- Installed Power Capacity capacity and more than 4,800 (megawatts) of installed power capacity
- Dam Height 143 meters (470 feet)
- Dam Length 2,743 meters (9,000 feet)
- Ranking Among the Top 10 largest dams globally by volume and electricity output
The Tarbela Dam is ranked among the world’s largest earth-filled dams, ranking among the top ten largest dams in terms of volume and electrical generation.
Tarbela Dam Pakistan Electricity Production
Tarbela supplies about 25% of Pakistan’s total electricity generation from hydropower. It powers millions of households and industries around the country. The dam has many power units and is now undergoing modifications to further improve capacity.
Tarbela Dam Pakistan, on which river?
The Tarbela Dam is erected on the Indus River, Pakistan’s largest and most important river. The dam manages water flow, especially during monsoon season, and ensures irrigation for crops.
Tarbela Dam Photos, Night View, & Scenic Beauty
Tarbela offers stunning views that attract photographers, visitors, and conservationists. The night view of the dam lighted under floodlights is extremely beautiful.
Common sights:
View of Tarbela Dam at night
aerial photographs of Tarbela Dam
Dam location in dawn or dusk
Social media now frequently features footage and photographs of Tarbela Dam taken from drones.
Access and Infrastructure Tarbela Cantt & Ghazi Airbase
Tarbela Cantt A town run by the military that provides labor and support for dam operations
Ghazi Airbase Tarbela An important airport for emergency assistance, monitoring, and logistics
The entire region is well-connected through highways and power grids.
Diga Tarbela Pakistan Local Culture & Community
Known for their hospitality and straightforward way of life, the Tarbela region is home to a thriving Pashtun community with strong ties to the natural environment.
- Many of them work in fields related to
- WAPDA (Water and Power Development Authority),
- Agriculture,
- The military, and engineering.
- The word “Diga” in the local dialect refers to the dam.
Environmental and Agricultural Benefits
In Pakistan, Tarbela has revolutionized farming and water management by:
Irrigating millions of acres of land;
lowering the risk of flooding in Punjab and Sindh;
preserving water flow during dry seasons;
And serving as a hub for renewable energy and climate adaptation initiatives.
Is Tarbela a Tourist Destination?
Tarbela is being marketed more and more as an educational travel destination, despite not being a popular tourist destination. Visitors can investigate:
Dam operations and structure
Spillways and water tunnels
Decks of observations
Because of security zones, you could require special clearance to enter completely.
Tarbela Dam Location Map
FAQs
1. Where is Tarbela Dam located?
Tarbela Dam is in Haripur District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, near Ghazi town.
2. On which river is the Tarbela Dam built?
Tarbela Dam is built on the Indus River.
3. What is the electricity capacity of Tarbela Dam?
Currently over 4,800 megawatts (MW), with expansion underway.
4. How big is Tarbela Dam?
- Height: 143 meters
- Length: 2,743 meters
5. What is the world ranking of Tarbela Dam?
It is one of the largest earth-filled dams globally, in the top 10 in structure and capacity.
6. Can tourists visit Tarbela Dam?
Yes, but you may require prior permission. Some areas are restricted due to military presence.
7. What is Tarbela Cantt?
A military-controlled cantonment that supports dam operations.
8. What is Tarbela Ghazi Airbase?
An airstrip near the dam is used for logistics and support by the military and WAPDA.
9. What is the scenic value of Tarbela Dam?
The dam offers spectacular views, especially at sunrise, sunset, and nighttime with lighting.
10. Is Tarbela Dam still expanding?
Yes. Expansion phases like Tarbela IV and V are ongoing to boost power output and sustainability.
Conclusion
Tarbela is more than just a dam; it is a vital component of Pakistan’s economy, environment, and energy. With its enormous hydroelectric potential, advantageous location, and developing infrastructure, Tarbela continues to be a development symbol. Whether you are a student, tourist, engineer, or simply an inquisitive person, Tarbela is an important chapter in Pakistan’s history.
