Water from the dam is used for irrigation as well as for generating electricity at the Bhira hydroelectric power plant, operated by Tata Power. The station operates six 25MW Peltonturbines installed in 1927 and one 150MW Pumped Storage Unit. Water from this reservoir located in the Krishna River basin is diverted to the Bhira power house for generating Hydro electricity.
In 1920–21, during the construction of the dam and power station, Pandurang Mahadev Bapat led Mulshi Satyagrah, a movement to represent farmers whose land had been taken to build the project. He was dubbed Senapati (commander) in recognition of his leadership.[2][3]
Tourism
In recent years Mulshi and adjoining areas have been developed as a tourist destination, adding accommodation for leisure guests. The place is around 2 hours drive from Pune and is a major attraction over the weekends. The best time of the year to visit Mulshi is from August to October.