Bratsk

Bratsk is a city in Irkutsk Oblast, Russia, located on the Angara River. It is a major industrial center, particularly known for its aluminum production and lumber processing. The city's development is closely tied to the construction of the Bratsk Hydroelectric Power Station, one of the largest in the world, which began in the 1950s.

The Bratsk Reservoir, formed by the dam, is a vast artificial lake that significantly impacted the local environment and economy. The city's population grew rapidly during the Soviet era due to the influx of workers for the power station and associated industries. Bratsk is situated in a region with a harsh continental climate, characterized by long, cold winters and short, warm summers.

Transportation in Bratsk is facilitated by a railway line and a river port on the Angara, connecting it to other parts of Siberia and beyond. The city has several educational institutions, including branches of universities, and cultural facilities such as theaters and museums. Despite its industrial focus, Bratsk also offers access to natural landscapes, including taiga forests and lakes, popular for outdoor recreation. The city's economy continues to rely heavily on its natural resources and heavy industry.