If you drive through the dense forests of the Angul district, the trees will suddenly part and the sight of a water wall will appear to you, which seems to be reaching the clouds. This is the Rengali reservoir, a gigantic water body that covers a large portion of Odisha. It is situated around 85 kilometers from the main Angul town. The water is so blue and so calm that it appears like a huge mirror.
Why is it here? People often ask Rengali dam on which river, and the answer is the Brahmani River. This river was flooding the plains annually. To prevent the water from damaging the houses, the government constructed this huge wall in the 1980s. Currently, the river not only provides electricity but also a habitat for thousands of birds instead of causing fear.
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ToggleThe saga of Rengali is quite a sad one. The closing of the gates led to some old villages going under the water. Internally, it is believed that the spirits of those old houses still reside in the deepest parts of the lake. The heart understands what the signals are revealing that even though the lights in the city shine because of this water, the earth below has been sacrificed.
If you take a walk at the top of the Rengali dam, the first thing you will notice is the enormous force of the river pressing against the concrete. You get the feeling that the river is alive and very angry. This feeling is both revealing and warning; we are told that humans can only try to challenge and even hold the forces of nature, but in the end, it is nature which will always prevail. The landscape is quite rough and includes lush hills that seem to embrace the water as if it were a small child needing protection.
If you want a peaceful picnic place in Angul, this should be your destination. Most people like Derjang reservoir as it is nearer to the town, but Rengali has a more natural beauty. The silence is so deep you can only listen to the rustling of the grass by the wind and the occasional fish splashing. Those who wish to stay overnight may be interested in Rengali camp offering small cottages where you can be greeted by the sound of the water. It’s a simple place. There is no luxury, but you can enjoy a sky full of stars.
The cultural vibe of the locals is that of a strong reverence. They do not yell or blast music near the water. They understand that the reservoir is the source of their fields, and they handle it with calm care.
If you decide to visit this picnic area in Angul, plan your trip for winter time. The sun in May is really harsh if you decide to walk on the dam. December and January are absolutely right. The air is fresh and the water is cool. Make sure you wear sturdy shoes as the trails around Rengali reservoir are rough and uneven. What do I suggest? Bring your own food. There are no big stores around, only small tea stalls. Sit down on the grass, watch the sun set behind the hills and just enjoy the silence. The Rengali dam is more than just a piece of engineering; it is where you can eventually hear your own thoughts.
