The Kishau Dam will become India’s second-highest dam after the Tehri Dam. It will rise about 232 metres high. Notably, it will also be the 11th-highest dam in Asia. The dam will come up on the Tons river along the Uttarakhand–Himachal Pradesh border.
Six States Sign the Kishau Dam Agreement
On 15 September 2026, six states signed an agreement on the project. These states are Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi and Haryana. Indeed, the project had remained stuck for decades. So, the pact marks a major step forward.
Key Features of the Kishau Dam
- River: Tons, a major tributary of the Yamuna
- Location: Border of Dehradun (Uttarakhand) and Sirmaur (Himachal Pradesh)
- Height: About 232 metres (concrete gravity dam)
- Storage: About 1,562 million cubic metres
- Irrigation: About 97,000 hectares
- Estimated cost: About ₹15,000 crore or more
Funding and Water Sharing
The Centre will bear 90 per cent of the cost as a national project. Meanwhile, the states will share the remaining 10 per cent. Also, the water will go to six states. For instance, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh will get the largest shares. Similarly, Delhi and Rajasthan will receive Himachal Pradesh’s share of water.
Highest Dams for Comparison
India’s highest dam is the Tehri Dam on the Bhagirathi river. Next, Kishau will take the second spot at about 232 metres. Globally, Tajikistan’s Rogun Dam, still under construction, will be the world’s tallest. In fact, it will reach about 335 metres.
Benefits and Concerns
The project will store monsoon water for use in dry months. Therefore, it can ease drinking water stress in Delhi and nearby states. Furthermore, it will produce hydropower and support irrigation.
However, experts have raised some concerns. First, the Himalayan region is highly prone to earthquakes. Second, the dam will submerge forest and farm land. Third, many families may face displacement. Hence, careful safety and rehabilitation planning is essential.
Why the Kishau Dam Matters for UKPSC
Notably, dams and rivers of Uttarakhand are frequent UKPSC topics. So, remember the river, height, districts and six partner states. Also, compare Kishau with the Tehri Dam. For official updates, also visit the Department of Water Resources. Next, for a related story, read about the Tehri Lake global destination plan. You can also download our free Uttarakhand Current Affairs magazine.
So, are you preparing for the UKPSC Upper PCS 2026 prelims? Then join our UKPSC 2026 Prelims Test Series for regular practice.