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Showing posts with the label Vaal Dam travel

FS 31/GP 01: Exploring the Vaal Dam: A Hidden Gem in South Africa

Exploring the Vaal Dam: A Hidden Gem in South Africa Introduction Nestled between the Gauteng and Free State provinces, the Vaal Dam stands as a testament to human engineering and a natural wonder. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or simply someone who appreciates scenic beauty, the Vaal Dam has something to offer for everyone. 1. The Origins A Great Depression Project The construction of the Vaal Dam began during the Great Depression of the early 1930s. It was a joint venture between Rand Water and the Department of Irrigation (now known as the Department of Water Affairs). Completed in 1938, the dam was initially designed with a wall height of 54.2 meters and a full supply capacity of 994 million cubic meters. Subsequent raisings increased its capacity to the current impressive 2.6 billion cubic meters. Feeding Rivers The Vaal Dam owes its existence to several rivers that flo...