Ancient Indian engineering continues to impress with its ingenuity and sustainability. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) recently released images of the 1,000-year-old Anang Dam, a remarkable example of early hydraulic engineering. Built entirely without modern machinery or gates, the dam utilised gravity-based technology to store and manage rainwater efficiently.
Located southwest of Surajkund, the #AnangDam is attributed to Anangpal of the Tomar Dynasty, dating back to the 11th century CE. This impressive structure reflects the ingenuity of hydraulic engineering technique of this very remarkable historical dynasty in the region. The… pic.twitter.com/kUYexjv3vo
— Archaeological Survey of India (@ASIGoI) June 7, 2025
Constructed using gravity-based technology, this dam was commissioned over 1,100 years ago by King Anangpal Tomar, a ruler of Delhi. Situated in Anangpur village, near the Delhi-Haryana border, the dam once played a crucial role in collecting and storing rainwater in the region. It’s considered one of the oldest known dams in India.
How Was Water Supplied to Ancient Delhi?
Ever wondered how ancient Delhi sourced its water? Structures like Surajkund and Badkhal Lake relied on rainwater harvesting and natural storage systems — and at the heart of this network was the Anang Dam. Built between the Aravalli hills, it provided water to the early settlements of Delhi without any mechanical systems.
Architectural Highlights
According to ASI, Anangtal, located southwest of Surajkund, was built during the reign of Anangpal Tomar of the 11th century Tomar dynasty. The dam showcases remarkable hydraulic engineering:
-The eastern wall of the dam is sloped to increase structural strength — thicker at the bottom than the top.
-The western side features stone-carved steps.
-Angular lateral steps are present on both northern and southern sides.
-The total length of the dam is approximately 101.2 meters.
-It has seven drainage channels at various depths, enabling selective water retention.
-Constructed using finely carved stone blocks, rubble masonry, and lime mortar, the dam reflects the ingenuity of pre-modern engineering.
Legacy of Anangpal Tomar
Anangpal Tomar is widely credited with founding the city of Delhi. Ruling during the 11th century, he was likely the last sovereign of the Tomar dynasty, which began in the early 8th century. The dynasty established its capital at Anangpur and extended its influence across the region.
Anangpal built several forts, temples, and public works — many of which have not survived the test of time. However, the Anang Dam and Anang Tal are enduring symbols of his legacy.
Anang Tal: A National Monument
Located in Mehrauli, Delhi, Anang Tal was also built by Anangpal II. In 2022, it was declared a National Monument by the Government of India. The founding director of ASI, Alexander Cunningham, measured the tank’s dimensions between 1862–1865 as 169 feet (N-S) by 152 feet (E-W) with a depth of 40 feet, giving it a storage capacity of nearly one million cubic feet. Today, following restoration efforts by the Delhi government, the ancient site has been cleaned and cleared of several tonnes of debris, reviving a vital piece of Delhi’s historic infrastructure.
