[3][4] The project for the realization of this hydraulic structure was approved on 24 May 1911 in order to carry out the water supply of the Meraldene River as well as the construction of the dam itself.

The Bourdin Dam supported the nearby Tizi N’Aït Aïcha Train Station by supplying water through a pumping system.

This dam functions as a water reservoir, receiving its supply from streams originating in several nearby villages, including Thabrahimth, Meghladen, Keddara, Soumaâ, and Tizouighine.

The Crop Factor, which measures runoff potential, has an average value ranging between 150 and 300, reflecting moderate to high water retention and flow dynamics within the area.

The decision to construct the dam in 1911 was part of an effort to develop the settlement of Thénia to accommodate an increasing number of European workers employed on the railway.

The mayor of Thénia at the time, Philippe Jalabert, announced the tender for the dam project, inviting contractors to submit bids between 30 April 1911, and 24 May 1911.

In a public session, municipal officials awarded the project for water supply from the Bourdin River through a bidding process to one of the contractors.

[16] People's Municipal Assembly of Thénia Beni Aïcha was responsible for overseeing the progress of the Meghladen Dam project, beginning in 1911.

[20] The inauguration ceremony for the dam on the Meghladen River was attended by the town's mayor, the supervising engineer M. Chauzy, and the contractor Auguste Schneider, underscoring its importance to the colonial infrastructure.

[22] This infrastructure development facilitated the establishment of artisan and industrial workshops in the town of Thénia, which was equipped with electricity and water supplies.