The harsh project is one of the largest irrigation projects in the Indian state of Maharashtra. It is a multipurpose project. The water is mainly used to irrigate agricultural land in the drought-prone Marathwada region of the state. It also provides water for drinking and industrial usage to nearby towns and villages and to the municipalities and industrial areas of Aurangabad and Jalna district. The surrounding area of the dam has a garden and a bird sanctuary.

For some a lively picnic spot while for some, and a birdies hotspot to others – Jayakwadi Dam is a beautiful monsoon retreat that is a treat to the senses. Built across the Godavari River with a purpose to solve the irrigation problem in the region, Jayakwadi Dam is surrounded by the lush forest that becomes a hub for the migratory bird especially during the monsoon season. A welcome accompaniment is a scrumptious food that one can enjoy at any of the stall close to the dam. Also, there’s a garden that surrounds the area that often remains crowded with families to enjoy picnic.
History of the Jayakwadi Dam

Counted amongst the largest dams in Asia, Jayakwadi Dam is of special importance when it comes to the irrigation in Maharashtra. It is built across Godavari river in the Marathwada region, which was a drought prone region. On 1st October 1965, the foundation stone of the dam was laid by then Prime Minister of India, Lal Bahadur Shastri. And then on 24 February 1976, Indira Gandhi inaugurated it.
Things to Do & See in and around

After a break at the Jayakwadi Dam, tourists can go out to explore the Paithan, which is barely a kilometer or two away. In the bygone era, Paithan was the capital of the Satavahana Empire of ancient India that ruled from 2nd century BC to 2nd century AD. It is said that Paithan was built by the King Ila, the ruler of Bahlika. The same King Ila who managed to stay as man and woman alternatively every month. He would not remember events of one stage in the other. Natha Sagar reservoir and the Dnyaneshwar Garden are some of the popular places one should visit here.
Address

North Jaikwadi Flyover, Sant Dynaneshwar Udyaan, Paithan, Maharashtra 431107
How to reach

To reach the Jayakwadi Dam, one can hire a taxi from the Aurangabad city. Closest landmark to the dam is Paithan, a town that is 51 kilometers from Aurangabad.