The World's Largest Earth-Filled Dam

Tarbela Dam sits on the Indus River in Pakistan. The structure stands 148 metres high above the riverbed.

Tarbela Lake stretches 80.5 kilometres behind the dam, covering 250 square kilometres. A large puddle for a dirt pile.

Tarbela Dam has an estimated useful life of 85 years.

Tarbela hydroelectric stations produce 4,888 megawatts. A fifth extension will raise capacity to 6,418 megawatts.

Five tunnels were built into Tarbela Dam outlet works. Tunnels one through four spin turbines now. Tunnel five was for irrigation.

The Indus River carries 200 million tons of sediment yearly. This silt fills Tarbela reservoir.

The main service spillway releases 18,406 cubic metres per second. Over 70 percent of water passes unused. Tarbela prefers splashing.