New Delhi, October 13 (IANS). The Supreme Court on Monday directed to issue notice to the Central government and the state of Tamil Nadu on a plea seeking closure of the century-old Mullaperiyar Dam in Kerala and construction of a new dam at the same site.
The petition was filed by Save Kerala Brigade, a Kerala-based organisation. A bench of Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran had directed to issue the notice.
Gavai remarked that Mullaperiyar Dam is one of the oldest dams.
Senior advocate V Giri, appearing for the petitioner, agreed with this and said that it is 130 years old. However, he pointed out the problems related to the dam and said that the lives of about 1 crore people are in danger. He further said that you have to tell what exactly the problem is.
The Mullaperiyar Dam, built by the British more than a century ago, has long been a bone of contention between Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
Kerala has repeatedly raised safety concerns, citing the dam’s age and structural weakness, while Tamil Nadu says the dam is structurally sound and safe.
Although the dam and its catchment area are located in Kerala, the reservoir’s water is vital to Tamil Nadu, serving as a lifeline for five districts of the state.
In a landmark 2014 judgment, the Supreme Court upheld Tamil Nadu’s stand, declaring the dam safe and directing that the water level in the reservoir be maintained at 142 feet. The Court also constituted a supervisory committee to monitor the management of the dam. Tamil Nadu has consistently advocated for the safety of the dam and called for measures to strengthen its structure.
–IANS
SCH/PSK
