Right before us stands the impressive Uokiri Dam, known locally as \u9b5a\u5207\u30c0\u30e0. It is not just a concrete structure. It is a testament to Hiroshima’s resilience. This dam is located in Hiroshima City, Saeki Ward. More precisely, it is in Itsukaichi-cho, Ogochi, on the River Uokiri.
\u9b5a\u5207\u30c0\u30e0 helps manage the flow of the Yawata River. The Yawata River flows into the Seto Inland Sea. The river starts from Mt. Afuranto. The height of the mountain is around 900 meters.
Did you realize \u9b5a\u5207\u30c0\u30e0 serves multiple crucial functions? It helps with flood control. It provides a stable water supply. It maintains the river environment. It even contributes to power generation.
Construction on \u9b5a\u5207\u30c0\u30e0 finished in 1981. This followed investigations starting in 1969. The project cost 16.9 billion yen. It took 12 years to complete. Fujita Corporation was the construction company.
The area around Itsukaichi had significant flood damage. This was due to typhoons in 1945 and 1951. The construction of \u9b5a\u5207\u30c0\u30e0 was a direct response. The goal was to prevent similar disasters.
\u9b5a\u5207\u30c0\u30e0 is a gravity concrete dam. It has a height of 79.8 meters. The crest length spans 255 meters. The dam volume totals 317,000 cubic meters. The reservoir has a gross water storage capacity of 8,460,000 cubic meters. The effective storage is 7,840,000 cubic meters. The catchment area covers 38.4 square kilometers. The water surface area extends 40 hectares.
\u9b5a\u5207u30c0u30e0 also houses the Uokiri Power Station. It has a capacity of 700 kilowatts. The primary purpose is flood control. It also supports waterworks and power generation.
The climate in the river basin is typical of the Seto Inland Sea region. It is warm with an annual rainfall of about 1500 mm. This dam ensures a steady water supply. It helps manage water flow for the surrounding communities.
From 1992 to 2001, the dam underwent water quality conservation projects. These projects helped maintain a healthy reservoir. The dam balances human needs and environmental care.
The location of \u9b5a\u5207u30c0u30e0 is a bit removed from Saeki Ward’s central area. The Uokiri River feeds into the Yawata River. It eventually flows into the Seto Inland Sea.
\u9b5a\u5207u30c0u30e0 stands as an engineering marvel. It showcases Hiroshima Prefecture’s commitment. This commitment is to safety, sustainability, and progress.