Atikhisar Dam

Atikhisar Dam is a water structure built on the Sarıçay (Kocaçay) river in Çanakkale province, Türkiye. Commissioned in 1975, dam serves multiple purposes beyond energy production. Its primary functions include meeting Çanakkale city’s drinking water needs, irrigating agricultural lands, and protecting against floods.

Atikhisar Dam (TRT News)

Geographical Location

Atikhisar Dam is located approximately 11 km southeast of the center of Çanakkale city, immediately south of Atikhisar Castle, within the Sarıçay valley along the Çanakkale-Çan highway.

History

Construction of the dam began in 1968 and was completed and put into operation in 1975. In 1995, due to increased water demand, the maximum storage capacity was expanded.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Earthfill
• Maximum Operating Volume: 52.5 million m³
• Maximum Flood Volume: 74.4 million m³
• Reservoir Area: 3.6 km²
• Crest (Dam) Length: 420 m
• Crest Height: 68.28 m
• Spillway Capacity: 2085 m³/s
• Irrigation Area: 1000 ha of agricultural land

Uses

Drinking and Domestic Water

• It is the sole source of drinking water for Çanakkale.
• The city’s annual water demand is 12.5 million m³, and the dam’s water is treated at a facility operated by the municipality before distribution to the city.
• Restrictions on water use are imposed, particularly during summer months due to declining water levels.

Irrigation

• The dam is used to irrigate agricultural lands in the Çanakkale, Kalabaklı and Özbek plains.
• The irrigated area decreased from 3600 ha in 1985 to 2620 ha by 2003.
• Fruit orchards, tomatoes, beans and maize are commonly cultivated in the irrigated areas.

Flood Control

• The dam protects the center of Çanakkale from floods caused by the Sarıçay river. However, flood risks persist due to the narrowing of floodplains.

Fishing

• The reservoir is home to fish species such as carp, freshwater bream and snakehead.
• Between 1995 and 2001, carp were introduced into the reservoir to support commercial production.

Environmental and Economic Impacts

• The dam’s construction increased agricultural productivity and satisfied Çanakkale’s drinking water needs.
• Despite its flood control capacity, urbanization in flood-prone areas continues to pose risks.
• Water use restrictions are occasionally implemented due to declining water levels and drought conditions.

Current Status and Recent Developments

• In 2024, water use restrictions were imposed in Çanakkale due to low rainfall.
• As of 2025, the dam’s fill level reached 60%, representing a significant improvement for the city’s water supply needs.
• Future measures are planned to enhance the efficient use of water resources.