SC’s Recent Directions on Mullaperiyar Dam Dispute

February 21, 2025

The Mullaperiyar dam has been at the centre of a long-standing dispute between Tamil Nadu and Kerala. On February 19, 2025, the Supreme Court directed a supervisory committee to address the concerns raised by Tamil Nadu regarding the dam’s maintenance. This committee, formed by the Centre, is headed by the National Dam Safety Authority.

Background of the Mullaperiyar Dam

The Mullaperiyar dam was built in 1895 and is located on the Periyar River in Kerala.
It is operated by Tamil Nadu under a lease agreement.
The dam has been a subject of contention due to safety concerns, especially after the 2011 earthquake in Sikkim.
Kerala has raised alarms about the dam’s structural integrity, while Tamil Nadu maintains that it is safe.

Recent Developments

The Supreme Court has instructed the supervisory committee to engage with stakeholders within a week. The committee is expected to report back within four weeks. The court has also consolidated multiple petitions regarding the dam to ensure a unified approach in addressing the issues.

Issues Raised by Tamil Nadu

The Tamil Nadu Water Resources Department claims that Kerala has delayed routine maintenance tasks. These include essential repairs and approvals for materials needed for strengthening the dam. Tamil Nadu argues that Kerala’s actions are hampering safety measures.

Kerala’s Position

Kerala has expressed concerns over the dam’s safety, citing climate change and erratic weather patterns as threats. The state has proposed decommissioning the existing dam and constructing a new one. This suggestion has been in discussion since 1979.

Legal and Environmental Implications

The dispute raises critical questions about cooperative federalism in India. Tamil Nadu’s plea for permission to conduct maintenance work marks the complexities of inter-state relations. Environmental concerns, such as the need for forest clearances for maintenance activities, further complicate the situation. Both states must balance safety, legal obligations, and ecological considerations.

Future Prospects

The involvement of the Supreme Court is step towards resolving the issues surrounding the Mullaperiyar dam. The supervisory committee’s findings will be crucial in determining the next steps. The ongoing dialogue between Tamil Nadu and Kerala will be essential in ensuring the dam’s safety and operational efficiency.

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