Darbandikhan Reservoir

Quick Facts

• Type: Reservoir
• Surface area: About 113 km²
• River: Diyala (Sirwan)
• Location: Sulaymaniyah Governorate, Iraq

Overview

Darbandikhan Reservoir was created by the Darbandikhan Dam on the Diyala River (locally known as the Sirwan). The reservoir is a key water and power resource for northeastern Iraq.

It also shapes a dramatic landscape of water, cliffs, and mountain backdrops near the town of Darbandikhan.

Landscape and Culture

The reservoir supports irrigation and electricity generation and has become a local recreation area. Its shoreline includes scenic viewpoints and access to nearby mountains.

Notes

The dam was completed in the early 1960s and remains one of the region’s most important infrastructure projects.