**Which is the Largest Artificial Lake in the World?**
VerifiedExplanation:
Lake Kariba holds the distinction of being the world's largest artificial lake by volume. Located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe in southern Africa, this massive reservoir was created by the construction of the Kariba Dam across the Zambezi River. The lake covers an impressive area of approximately 5,580 square kilometers and holds about 185 cubic kilometers of water when at full capacity.
The creation of Lake Kariba began in 1955 when construction started on the Kariba Dam, which was completed in 1959. The filling of the reservoir took several years, and the lake reached its full capacity by 1963. This engineering marvel was built primarily to generate hydroelectric power for both Zambia and Zimbabwe, and it continues to be a crucial source of electricity for the region. The dam stands at a height of 128 meters and stretches 579 meters across the Zambezi River.
Beyond its impressive size, Lake Kariba has become an important ecosystem and tourist destination. The lake supports a thriving fishing industry, with kapenta (a small sardine-like fish) being the most commercially important catch. The surrounding area has developed into a popular safari destination, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, fishing, and water sports. The lake is home to diverse aquatic life and supports the wildlife in the surrounding national parks on both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides.
The creation of Lake Kariba also had significant environmental and social impacts. During the filling of the reservoir, a massive wildlife rescue operation called "Operation Noah" was undertaken to save thousands of animals stranded on islands formed by the rising waters. Additionally, approximately 57,000 people from the Tonga community had to be relocated from their ancestral lands, which were submerged by the rising lake waters. This relocation remains a significant part of the lake's history and continues to influence the local communities today.
