Shigang Dam (traditional Chinese: 石岡壩; simplified Chinese: 石冈坝; pinyin: Shígāng Bà) is a concrete gravity barrage dam across the Dajia River in Shigang District and Dongshi District of Taichung, Taiwan, located near Fengyuan District.[1] The dam was built from 1974 to 1977 for flood control and irrigation purposes, and stands 35.2 m (115 ft) high and 357 m (1,171 ft) long, holding a reservoir with an original capacity of 3,380,000 m3 (2,740 acre⋅ft).[2] The dam was badly damaged in the 921 earthquake of 1999, which caused the collapse of its northern end. Subsequently, an embankment cofferdam was built to prevent water from flowing through the breach, while the collapsed section has been retained as a memorial. Since this reduces the storage capacity of the dam, it is no longer used for flood control, but remains an important source of...
Read moreShigang Dam is a major dam located in Taichung City, Taiwan. It was constructed in the early 1960s and is considered one of the largest earthfill dams in the world. The dam is designed to control the flow of the Dajia River and to generate hydroelectric power.
On September 21, 1999, a 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck central Taiwan, known as the 921 earthquake. The earthquake caused widespread damage, and the Shigang Dam was one of the structures that were severely affected. The earthquake caused the dam to undergo significant deformation and cracking, which led to concerns about the dam's stability.
As a result of the damage caused by the earthquake, the reservoir behind the dam was partially drained to reduce the risk of a potential dam failure. The authorities also conducted emergency repairs to the dam to restore its stability. However, the repairs took several years to complete, and during this time, the reservoir's water level was kept at a lower level than usual.
The 921 earthquake highlighted the vulnerability of Taiwan's infrastructure to seismic activity and led to increased efforts to improve the earthquake resistance of structures in the country. The Shigang Dam also underwent extensive retrofitting and strengthening works to improve its earthquake resistance.
In conclusion, the Shigang Dam in Taichung City, Taiwan, is a significant structure that plays a vital role in controlling the flow of the Dajia River and generating hydroelectric power. However, the 921 earthquake had a significant impact on the dam, causing deformation and cracking that led to concerns about its stability. The earthquake highlighted the importance of improving the earthquake resistance of structures in Taiwan, including the Shigang Dam, which underwent extensive retrofitting and strengthening works as a result of the...
Read moreThis dam is a stunning destination with crystal-clear water and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. It's easily accessible, making it a convenient spot for a day out. The nearby cycling track adds to its charm, offering a great opportunity for outdoor activities while enjoying the...
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