Gujarat Tourism
Gir National Park supports some of the rarest species of the world and is home to varied species of Flora and fauna. The biodiversity in Gir is supported by its rivers, lakes and the Kamleshwar Dam. Kamleshwar Dam, popularly known as the Huran-I-Dam by locals, is a massive dam built over a major river flowing through Gir National Park named Hiran.
Gir National Park is the only place in the world where you can see the Asiatic Lion species roaming freely in the wild. You can witness the majestic creature through a jeep safari tour in the forest of Gir National Park. However, most people visit Gir to get glimpses of Indian Lions but are more amazed by the magnificent landscapes, and diverse array of animals and birds seen all around the park. Kamleshwar Dam is a significant reason for maintaining all the beauty of the park.
This dam is built over the Hiran River which is one of the seven important rivers flowing in the Gir forest. Hiran is a lower land-flowing river and covers a 40-kilometre of total length in the park. The Dam on this river solves most of the requirements of the park and thus is a key factor in the biodiversity that every visitor enjoys in their wildlife tour in the Gir National Park. In fact, the dam itself is a quiet popular attraction in the Gir National park than anything else.
History of Kamleshwar Dam
In the mid-20th century when the wildlife authorities realised the requirement for a regular water source in the Park to sustain the biodiversity, the plan for a dam on the Hiran River started. Hiran River was chosen most probably because of its presence in the western region of the park, the region more prone to lack of water during hot seasons. Construction of Kamleshwar dam was started in the year 1955 and it took four years to complete the structure. Thus, the establishing date of the dam is the year 1959.
Special Things to Know About the Dam
- Kamleshwar Dam is the most important ecosystem spot in the Gir National Park.
- Huge population of crocodiles live in the water reserve of the dam
- You can spot many birds around the site of the dam.
