Manla Reservoir in Gyangze County, Shigatse
Manla Reservoir (Chinese: 满拉水库) is a large-scale hydraulic project located in Gyangze County (江孜县), Shigatse (日喀则), in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. Situated on the upper reaches of the Yanchu River (年楚河), this reservoir primarily serves as an irrigation and hydroelectric power generation facility, with additional benefits such as flood control and tourism. It is known for its striking beauty and is sometimes referred to as a “green gem” nestled in the mountains.
Geography and Location
Manla Reservoir is located 28 kilometers from Gyangze County (江孜县) and 113 kilometers from Shigatse City (日喀则). The reservoir’s basin covers an area of 2757 square kilometers, and it sits at an average elevation of 4200 to 4300 meters above sea level, which places it high on the Tibetan Plateau. The surrounding terrain is harsh, with extremely cold winters, oxygen-poor air, and dry conditions. The construction period for the project was limited to 7 to 8 months annually due to severe weather and altitude challenges.
The reservoir’s geographical area is dominated by glaciers, with approximately 130 square kilometers covered by glaciers. The source of the river near the reservoir has 49 glaciers arranged in an east-west direction.
The Reservoir
Design and Capacity
The total design capacity of the Manla Reservoir is 157 million cubic meters of water, with a normal water level of 4256 meters and a dead water level of 4235 meters. The regulation capacity is 83 million cubic meters, and the dead storage is 49 million cubic meters. The average annual flow rate at the dam site is 15.1 cubic meters per second, with flood flow rates being extremely high, especially in the event of rare occurrences. The 100-year flood peak flow is estimated at 393 cubic meters per second, and the 2000-year flood peak flow is calculated to be 644 cubic meters per second.
Hydroelectric Power Generation
The reservoir’s hydroelectric power station includes a clay-core rockfill dam with a maximum dam height of 75.3 meters and a dam crest length of 287 meters. The power station is equipped with four hydroelectric turbines, each with a capacity of 5000 kW, for a total installed capacity of 20,000 kW. The guaranteed output is 36.5 MW, and the annual power generation capacity is around 61 million kWh. The station is integral to the reservoir’s operation, providing both electricity and essential flood control.
The Dam
Construction and Engineering
The Manla Reservoir Dam is constructed using a clay-core rockfill method. The dam itself has a total height of 76.3 meters and a crest length of 287 meters. The power station facilities are housed in a 51.5 x 13.68 x 25.23-meter building, and it features advanced turbines, ensuring efficient energy production. The dam’s complex structure includes the dam body, spillways, power tunnels, and a pressure adjustment shaft.
Safety and Environment
Environmental and Safety Considerations
The area surrounding the Manla Reservoir is pristine and remote, and its development as a hydroelectric facility has been carefully planned to minimize environmental impact. It serves as an essential component for water management and hydroelectric power generation, benefiting the region’s agriculture and energy infrastructure. However, the location’s elevation and severe weather conditions make safety a primary concern, especially for construction and maintenance crews working at high altitudes with limited access.
Access and Transportation
The reservoir is relatively remote, located 28 kilometers from Gyangze (江孜) and 113 kilometers from Shigatse (日喀则). The construction site was challenging to access due to the harsh high-altitude conditions and the limited construction period. Travelers or those wishing to visit should be prepared for difficult terrain and should travel with proper vehicles capable of handling mountain roads, especially during the rainy season when flash floods can disrupt transportation.
Tourism and Scenic Views
The Manla Reservoir is not only a vital infrastructure project but also a beautiful tourist destination. The surrounding area features stunning landscapes, including towering mountains and serene waters, making it a popular spot for visitors seeking to experience the natural beauty of Tibet (西藏). The lake’s clear blue waters, combined with the vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the wind, add to the mystical atmosphere of the location.
Visitors can enjoy scenic views from Manla Reservoir’s observation platforms or explore the surrounding rugged mountains and glaciers, offering opportunities for eco-tourism and high-altitude adventure.
Key Facts
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Dam Height: 76.3 meters
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Dam Length: 287 meters
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Total Storage Capacity: 157 million cubic meters
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Average Annual Flow: 4.83 billion cubic meters
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Installed Hydropower Capacity: 20,000 kW
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Annual Power Generation: 61 million kWh
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Location: Gyangze County (江孜县), Shigatse (日喀则), Tibet (西藏), China
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Elevation: 4200-4300 meters
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Flood Control: Designed for extreme flood conditions with a 2000-year flood standard.
Videos and Scenic Views
The Manla Reservoir area is also a great place for travelers to capture stunning photography and videos. It’s often described as a hidden gem in the mountains, with picturesque scenes like the emerald-blue lake, rugged cliffs, and the prayer flags that add a cultural touch to the beauty of the region. Videos of the area show travelers immersed in the breathtaking beauty, from drone footage to on-the-ground explorations of the peaceful and serene environment.
For more travel tips or to plan a visit, it’s recommended to check local transportation and tour options in Tibet, as the remote location can present challenges in terms of travel logistics.
