Dam capacity per capita 1981

Dam capacity per capita measures the amount of water storage available for each individual in a country, expressed in cubic meters. This statistic highlights water resource management and its impact on sustainability and development. Understanding dam capacity is crucial for addressing water security and supporting agriculture, industry, and communities.

164 data points•Updated 12/7/2025•World•Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)•

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Complete Data Rankings

Rank
1	Australia	4,412.09 cubic meters per inhabitant
2	Côte d'Ivoire	4,351.02 cubic meters per inhabitant
3	Argentina	3,452.86 cubic meters per inhabitant
4	Albania	1,282.96 cubic meters per inhabitant
5	Bulgaria	630.19 cubic meters per inhabitant
6	Angola	512.31 cubic meters per inhabitant
7	Austria	255.631 cubic meters per inhabitant
8	Afghanistan	168.292 cubic meters per inhabitant
9	Algeria	107.787 cubic meters per inhabitant
10	Antigua and Barbuda	77.646 cubic meters per inhabitant
11	Armenia	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
12	Azerbaijan	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
13	Bahrain	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
14	Bangladesh	71.725 cubic meters per inhabitant
15	Belarus	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
16	Canada	33,201.7 cubic meters per inhabitant
17	Brazil	4,023.16 cubic meters per inhabitant
18	Chile	827.572 cubic meters per inhabitant
19	Costa Rica	792.913 cubic meters per inhabitant
20	Cameroon	511.052 cubic meters per inhabitant
21	Cuba	411.736 cubic meters per inhabitant
22	Botswana	314.228 cubic meters per inhabitant
23	China	274.611 cubic meters per inhabitant
24	Colombia	245.91 cubic meters per inhabitant
25	Brunei Darussalam	234.471 cubic meters per inhabitant
26	Dominican Republic	174.278 cubic meters per inhabitant
27	Burkina Faso	126.028 cubic meters per inhabitant
28	Cyprus	62.718 cubic meters per inhabitant
29	Bolivia	50 cubic meters per inhabitant
30	Belgium	14.705 cubic meters per inhabitant
31	Benin	5.819 cubic meters per inhabitant
32	Congo	4.813 cubic meters per inhabitant
33	Congo, Democratic Republic of the	1.922 cubic meters per inhabitant
34	Belize	0 cubic meters per inhabitant
35	Bhutan	0 cubic meters per inhabitant
36	Bosnia and Herzegovina	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
37	Cabo Verde	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
38	Cambodia	0 cubic meters per inhabitant
39	Croatia	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
40	Czech Republic	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
41	Egypt	3,725.52 cubic meters per inhabitant
42	El Salvador	765.545 cubic meters per inhabitant
43	Eswatini	366.232 cubic meters per inhabitant
44	Ecuador	24.526 cubic meters per inhabitant
45	Eritrea	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
46	Estonia	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
47	Ethiopia	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
48	Ghana	12,091.5 cubic meters per inhabitant
49	Iraq	9,360.02 cubic meters per inhabitant
50	Iceland	7,107.82 cubic meters per inhabitant
51	Finland	3,875.75 cubic meters per inhabitant
52	Laos	2,088.14 cubic meters per inhabitant
53	Kenya	1,311.1 cubic meters per inhabitant
54	Greece	1,062.49 cubic meters per inhabitant
55	Lesotho	601.073 cubic meters per inhabitant
56	Iran	380.355 cubic meters per inhabitant
57	Gabon	286.315 cubic meters per inhabitant
58	Guyana	257.775 cubic meters per inhabitant
59	Ireland	251.97 cubic meters per inhabitant
60	India	232.167 cubic meters per inhabitant
61	France	170.071 cubic meters per inhabitant
62	Italy	141.47 cubic meters per inhabitant
63	Japan	110.51 cubic meters per inhabitant
64	Haiti	51.889 cubic meters per inhabitant
65	Indonesia	50.992 cubic meters per inhabitant
66	Guinea	46.08 cubic meters per inhabitant
67	Hungary	24.009 cubic meters per inhabitant
68	Honduras	6.557 cubic meters per inhabitant
69	Denmark	3.905 cubic meters per inhabitant
70	Guatemala	0.158 cubic meters per inhabitant
71	Fiji	0 cubic meters per inhabitant
72	Georgia	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
73	Germany	38.058 cubic meters per inhabitant
74	Grenada	0.191 cubic meters per inhabitant
75	Guinea-Bissau	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
76	Liberia	120.089 cubic meters per inhabitant
77	Lebanon	73.115 cubic meters per inhabitant
78	Jordan	2.838 cubic meters per inhabitant
79	Jamaica	2.507 cubic meters per inhabitant
80	Kazakhstan	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
81	Kyrgyzstan	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
82	Latvia	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
83	Libya	95.014 cubic meters per inhabitant
84	Lithuania	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
85	Nicaragua	9,555.76 cubic meters per inhabitant
86	Mozambique	6,265.71 cubic meters per inhabitant
87	Norway	5,677.33 cubic meters per inhabitant
88	New Zealand	5,047.53 cubic meters per inhabitant
89	Panama	4,257.94 cubic meters per inhabitant
90	Paraguay	2,718.32 cubic meters per inhabitant
91	Mexico	1,321.09 cubic meters per inhabitant
92	North Korea	964.601 cubic meters per inhabitant
93	Namibia	661.38 cubic meters per inhabitant
94	Portugal	645.961 cubic meters per inhabitant
95	Malaysia	546.345 cubic meters per inhabitant
96	Morocco	520.965 cubic meters per inhabitant
97	Netherlands	452.509 cubic meters per inhabitant
98	Nigeria	449.862 cubic meters per inhabitant
99	Romania	373.985 cubic meters per inhabitant
100	Pakistan	320.552 cubic meters per inhabitant
101	Peru	223.947 cubic meters per inhabitant
102	Luxembourg	148.788 cubic meters per inhabitant
103	Mongolia	143.443 cubic meters per inhabitant
104	Myanmar	71.212 cubic meters per inhabitant
105	Mauritius	64.97 cubic meters per inhabitant
106	Madagascar	53.18 cubic meters per inhabitant
107	Mali	22.749 cubic meters per inhabitant
108	Malawi	6.408 cubic meters per inhabitant
109	Maldives	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
110	Malta	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
111	Mauritania	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
112	Montenegro	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
113	Philippines	79.413 cubic meters per inhabitant
114	Poland	55.845 cubic meters per inhabitant
115	Niger	13.187 cubic meters per inhabitant
116	Nepal	0 cubic meters per inhabitant
117	North Macedonia	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
118	Oman	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
119	Papua New Guinea	0 cubic meters per inhabitant
120	Republic of Moldova	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
121	Russia	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
122	Saint Lucia	21.458 cubic meters per inhabitant
123	Rwanda	0 cubic meters per inhabitant
124	Samoa	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
125	Sao Tome and Principe	387.616 cubic meters per inhabitant
126	Saudi Arabia	61.802 cubic meters per inhabitant
127	Senegal	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
128	Serbia	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
129	Seychelles	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
130	Suriname	53,268.1 cubic meters per inhabitant
131	Zambia	16,902.6 cubic meters per inhabitant
132	Zimbabwe	13,151.6 cubic meters per inhabitant
133	Uganda	5,901.25 cubic meters per inhabitant
134	Tanzania	5,266.54 cubic meters per inhabitant
135	Uruguay	4,760.38 cubic meters per inhabitant
136	Sweden	4,249.04 cubic meters per inhabitant
137	United States	3,063.95 cubic meters per inhabitant
138	Syrian Arab Republic	1,369.51 cubic meters per inhabitant
139	Thailand	1,276.28 cubic meters per inhabitant
140	Spain	1,073.1 cubic meters per inhabitant
141	Turkey	1,032.79 cubic meters per inhabitant
142	Venezuela	659.908 cubic meters per inhabitant
143	Switzerland	526.158 cubic meters per inhabitant
144	Vietnam	484.369 cubic meters per inhabitant
145	Sri Lanka	278.413 cubic meters per inhabitant
146	United Kingdom	86.544 cubic meters per inhabitant
147	Sierra Leone	65.889 cubic meters per inhabitant
148	Singapore	29.584 cubic meters per inhabitant
149	Slovakia	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
150	Slovenia	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
151	Somalia	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
152	South Africa	668.332 cubic meters per inhabitant
153	Tunisia	231.137 cubic meters per inhabitant
154	South Korea	220.449 cubic meters per inhabitant
155	State of Palestine	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
156	Sudan	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
157	Tajikistan	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
158	Trinidad and Tobago	62.962 cubic meters per inhabitant
159	Togo	2.479 cubic meters per inhabitant
160	Turkmenistan	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
161	Ukraine	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
162	United Arab Emirates	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
163	Uzbekistan	NaN cubic meters per inhabitant
164	Yemen	0.53 cubic meters per inhabitant

↑Top 10 Countries

Analysis: These countries represent the highest values in this dataset, showcasing significant scale and impact on global statistics.

↓Bottom 10 Countries

Context: These countries or territories have the lowest values, often due to geographic size, administrative status, or specific characteristics.

Analysis & Context

In 1981, the metric of dam capacity per capita served as a crucial indicator of water resource management across the globe. Expressed in cubic meters per inhabitant, this statistic reflects the availability of water storage for individuals within a country, underscoring its significance in addressing water security, supporting agricultural activities, industry, and community development. The analysis of dam capacity per capita in 1981 offers a fascinating glimpse into the geographical and environmental dimensions of international water resource management.

Global Statistics Overview

The year 1981 saw 125 countries with available data on dam capacity per capita. The range of values was striking, with the minimum at 0.00 cubic meters and the maximum soaring to an impressive 53,268.10 cubic meters per inhabitant, as evidenced in Suriname. The average dam capacity per capita globally was 2,056.73 cubic meters, while the median value sat at a modest 255.63 cubic meters, revealing a wide disparity in water storage capabilities across nations.

Leaders in Water Storage

Suriname topped the list with an extraordinary dam capacity of 53,268.10 cubic meters per capita, followed by Canada with 33,201.7 cubic meters, and Zambia with 16,902.6 cubic meters. The presence of these countries among the highest ranked highlights their extensive natural water resources and substantial investment in water infrastructure. Notably, Iceland and Uganda were also featured prominently, demonstrating effective water management policies that cater to their geographical contexts.

Regional Disparities in Dam Capacity

The data from 1981 illustrates significant regional disparities in dam capacity per capita. African countries like Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Ghana stood out with substantial capacities, underscoring efforts to harness water resources to bolster agriculture and meet community needs. In contrast, several nations, including Fiji, Bhutan, and Cambodia, registered a dam capacity per capita of zero. This stark disparity highlights the varying levels of infrastructure development and resource availability in different regions.

Factors Influencing Dam Capacity

Several factors contributed to the variations in dam capacity per capita observed in 1981. Geographic features, such as the abundance of rivers and rainfall, were significant determinants. Countries with extensive river systems and favorable climatic conditions, like Canada and Iceland, naturally had higher capacities. Additionally, government policies and investment in water infrastructure played a crucial role. For instance, Tunisia saw a dramatic increase of 91.3% in its dam capacity per capita, attributed to targeted policy interventions aimed at enhancing water storage capabilities.

Year-over-Year Changes and Developments

From the previous year, 1981 witnessed an average change of 23.17 cubic meters per capita, marking a 1.2% increase. Some countries experienced significant growth in their dam capacities. For example, Canada recorded an increase of 5,013.80 cubic meters, representing a 17.8% rise, while Iceland's capacity grew by 1,080.92 cubic meters, a 17.9% jump. Conversely, nations like Zimbabwe and Zambia saw decreases of 6.1% and 3.0%, respectively, illustrating the dynamic shifts in water resource management strategies.

In conclusion, the analysis of dam capacity per capita in 1981 presents a complex picture of global water resource management. The significant disparities between countries underscore the influence of geographical and climatic factors, as well as the impact of national policies and investments in infrastructure. As water resources continue to play a pivotal role in sustainable development, understanding these past patterns provides valuable insights for future strategic planning and international cooperation in water management.

Insights by country

Japan

In 1981, Japan ranked 79th out of 164 countries in terms of dam capacity per capita, with a capacity of 110.51 cubic meters per inhabitant. This figure reflects Japan's extensive investment in water management infrastructure, which is crucial for both its agricultural sector and urban water supply.

The relatively high dam capacity per capita can be attributed to Japan's topography, which is characterized by mountainous terrain that necessitates the construction of dams for effective water storage and flood control. Additionally, Japan's commitment to disaster risk management, especially in the wake of natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes, has led to enhanced water resource development.

Moreover, Japan's advanced technology and engineering capabilities have facilitated the construction of large-scale hydraulic structures, contributing to the overall water management strategy. In comparison, many countries with lower dam capacity per capita may face challenges related to infrastructure development, resource allocation, or geographic constraints.

Algeria

In 1981, Algeria ranked 80th out of 164 countries in terms of dam capacity per capita, with a notable capacity of 107.787 cubic meters per inhabitant. This statistic reflects the country's investment in hydraulic infrastructure, which is crucial for managing water resources in a predominantly arid environment.

The relatively high dam capacity per capita can be attributed to Algeria's extensive efforts to develop water management systems, particularly in response to the challenges posed by limited rainfall and a growing population. The country has invested in several major dams to ensure water supply for agriculture, domestic use, and industrial needs.

In addition to its dam capacity, Algeria has faced ongoing challenges related to water distribution and management, which is vital for sustainable development. As one of the largest countries in Africa, Algeria's geographic diversity necessitates a robust infrastructure to support water accessibility across different regions.

Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan was ranked 120th out of 164 countries in terms of dam capacity per capita in the year 1981. Notably, the reported dam capacity per capita for this year was null cubic meters per inhabitant, indicating a lack of available data or minimal infrastructure development related to dam construction at that time.

This statistic can be contextualized within Azerbaijan's historical and economic landscape during the early 1980s, a period marked by significant political and social challenges, including the impact of Soviet governance and regional conflicts. The emphasis on industrialization in the Soviet era may have diverted resources away from water management projects, contributing to the low dam capacity.

Moreover, the country's geography and hydrology, characterized by the presence of the Caspian Sea and various rivers, may have influenced the development of water infrastructure. As a result, Azerbaijan's low ranking in dam capacity per capita reflects both the limitations of its water management systems and the broader economic conditions of the time.

Mongolia

Mongolia ranked 75th out of 164 countries in terms of dam capacity per capita in the year 1981. The country had a dam capacity of 143.443 cubic meters per inhabitant, which reflects its ability to store water for agricultural, industrial, and domestic use.

This relatively high capacity per capita can be attributed to Mongolia's geographical features, including its vast river systems and the need for water management in a country characterized by a harsh climate and sparse population. The development of dams is crucial for supporting the country's agriculture, particularly in the face of seasonal droughts.

Additionally, it is noteworthy that Mongolia's water resources are under pressure due to climate change and increasing demands from the mining sector, which could impact future dam capacities. The intricate balance of maintaining water resources while fostering economic growth remains a significant challenge for the nation.

South Africa

In 1981, South Africa ranked 38th out of 164 countries in terms of dam capacity per capita, with a significant value of 668.332 cubic meters per inhabitant. This high dam capacity per capita reflects the country's extensive investment in water infrastructure, crucial for supporting its agriculture and urban needs.

The relatively high dam capacity can be attributed to factors such as the country's diverse climate, which necessitates effective water management strategies, particularly in arid regions. Additionally, the apartheid era's policies focused on developing infrastructure for resource-rich areas, leading to enhanced water storage capabilities in certain regions.

As a comparative point, it is noteworthy that South Africa's water management challenges persist, with issues such as drought and water quality affecting the sustainability of these resources. The capacity per capita indicates not only the availability of water but also underscores the importance of ongoing efforts in water conservation and management to address future demands.

Sao Tome and Principe

Sao Tome and Principe ranks 53rd out of 164 countries in terms of dam capacity per capita as of 1981. The nation boasts a dam capacity of 387.616 cubic meters per inhabitant, indicating a significant investment in water infrastructure relative to its population size.

This statistic reflects the country's efforts to harness its abundant freshwater resources, which are crucial for agriculture, drinking water supply, and hydroelectric power generation. The development of dams in Sao Tome and Principe has been influenced by its geographical features, including numerous rivers and a tropical climate that supports high rainfall.

Furthermore, the relatively high dam capacity per capita could be attributed to the country's small population size, which allows for a greater distribution of water resources. As a smaller island nation, Sao Tome and Principe has the opportunity to manage its water resources effectively, which is essential for sustaining its economic activities and supporting its population.

Portugal

In 1981, Portugal ranked 41st out of 164 countries in terms of dam capacity per capita, with a significant value of 645.961 cubic meters per inhabitant. This statistic reflects the country's investment in water infrastructure, aimed at meeting agricultural, industrial, and domestic water needs.

The relatively high dam capacity per capita can be attributed to Portugal's geographical features, including numerous rivers and a favorable climate for hydropower generation. The country has a historical reliance on hydroelectric power, which has been a key component of its energy strategy, particularly in the late 20th century.

Moreover, the focus on developing dams and reservoirs has allowed Portugal to effectively manage its water resources, especially during periods of drought, which are not uncommon in the region. As a result, the robust dam infrastructure has played a vital role in supporting the country's economic activities and ensuring water security.

Tunisia

Tunisia ranked 68th out of 164 countries in terms of dam capacity per capita in 1981. The country had a dam capacity of 231.137 cubic meters per inhabitant, a statistic that reflects its water resource management and infrastructure development during that period.

This capacity is indicative of Tunisia's efforts to harness its water resources, particularly in a region where water scarcity can significantly impact agriculture and human consumption. The construction of dams has historically been a strategic response to mitigate droughts and enhance irrigation in Tunisia's predominantly arid climate.

Factors contributing to this dam capacity include governmental investments in water infrastructure, increasing agricultural demands, and the necessity to support a growing population. Additionally, regional climatic variations and the need for sustainable water management practices have played crucial roles in shaping Tunisia's water resource strategies.

Cuba

In 1981, Cuba ranked 52nd out of 164 countries in terms of dam capacity per capita, with a notable capacity of 411.736 cubic meters per inhabitant. This statistic reflects the country's investment in water management infrastructure, which is critical for supporting its agricultural sector and providing safe drinking water to its population.

The relatively high dam capacity per capita can be attributed to Cuba's focus on developing its water resources, particularly in response to the challenges posed by its tropical climate, which includes seasonal droughts and hurricanes. The government has historically prioritized infrastructure projects as part of its broader economic planning.

Additionally, Cuba's commitment to sustainable environmental practices and the management of natural resources has led to the construction of various dams and reservoirs, contributing to the nation's resilience against water scarcity. This statistic not only underscores the importance of water management in Cuba but also highlights the nation’s efforts to maintain a stable water supply amidst climatic challenges.

Burkina Faso

In 1981, Burkina Faso ranked 77th out of 164 countries in terms of dam capacity per capita, with a notable capacity of 126.028 cubic meters per inhabitant. This figure reflects the country's efforts to harness water resources for agricultural and domestic use, which are critical in a region characterized by variable rainfall patterns.

The relatively high dam capacity per capita can be attributed to Burkina Faso's geographical and climatic conditions, necessitating the development of water infrastructure to support both irrigation and drinking water supply. Additionally, the government's initiatives in the late 20th century aimed to enhance water management practices to combat the effects of drought and optimize agricultural productivity.

Interestingly, the capacity of dams is a crucial aspect of water resource management, especially in arid and semi-arid regions like Burkina Faso, where water scarcity can significantly impact food security and economic stability. This statistic highlights the importance of continued investment in water infrastructure to support the growing population and agricultural demands.

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