The Mullaperiyar Dam UPSC

The Mullaperiyar Dam

The Mullaperiyar Dam is a masonry gravity dam on the Periyar River in the Indian state of Kerala. It was constructed between 1887 and 1895 by the British government to divert water eastward to the Madras Presidency area (now in Tamil Nadu) for irrigation and drinking purposes. The dam is located on the Western Ghats, with its reservoir, the Periyar Lake, spanning about 12,000 acres.

Key details about the Mullaperiyar Dam include:

1. Location: The dam is located in Thekkady, Idukki district, Kerala, but it is operated and maintained by Tamil Nadu based on a lease agreement made in 1886.
2. Height and Length: The dam is about 53.6 meters (176 feet) high and 365.7 meters (1,200 feet) long.
3. Controversies: The Mullaperiyar Dam has been the subject of disputes between Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Kerala argues that the dam is structurally unsound and poses a risk to the downstream areas, while Tamil Nadu insists that the dam is safe and essential for its water needs.
4. Supreme Court Involvement: The issue has reached the Supreme Court of India several times, with various rulings focusing on safety inspections, water levels, and maintenance responsibilities.
5. Seismic Safety: Concerns have been raised about the dam’s ability to withstand seismic activity, given its age and the earthquake-prone nature of the region.

The Mullaperiyar Dam remains a critical water resource for Tamil Nadu, while also being a point of significant concern for the safety of communities in Kerala.

The Mullaperiyar Dam faces several challenges, both technical and socio-political:

Technical Challenges:

1. Structural Integrity: Given its age (constructed over a century ago), there are concerns about the dam’s ability to withstand modern-day pressures and natural events like earthquakes. The use of older construction materials and methods adds to these concerns.
2. Seismic Vulnerability: The region is seismically active, and there have been fears about the dam’s capability to endure a significant earthquake. Studies have indicated potential risks, necessitating continuous monitoring and upgrading.
3. Water Leakage: Over the years, there have been reports of water seepage and leaks, which can compromise the structural stability of the dam.
4. Maintenance: Regular and thorough maintenance is required to ensure the dam’s safety. Given its age and the high stakes involved, this is a critical and ongoing challenge.

Socio-Political Challenges:

1. Interstate Disputes: The dam is a point of contention between Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Kerala focuses on the safety concerns and risks to its population, while Tamil Nadu emphasizes the necessity of the dam for its water needs. These differing priorities lead to frequent legal and political conflicts.
2. Water Level Disagreements: Disagreements persist over the optimal water level in the dam. Kerala advocates for a lower water level to mitigate risk, while Tamil Nadu prefers a higher level to maximize water storage and supply.
3. Legal Battles: The dispute has led to numerous legal battles, including several cases in the Supreme Court of India. Each ruling brings its own set of compliance requirements and political ramifications.
4. Environmental Concerns: The ecological impact of the dam, including effects on local wildlife and ecosystems, is a concern. Any changes in the dam’s operation can have significant environmental repercussions.
5. Public Safety and Trust: Ensuring the safety of the population living downstream is paramount. Building and maintaining trust among the affected communities is challenging, especially in light of ongoing disputes and differing reports about the dam’s safety.

Environmental Challenges:

1. Climate Change: Changes in rainfall patterns due to climate change can impact water availability and management strategies. Unpredictable weather can strain the dam’s operations and safety protocols.
2. Ecological Balance: Maintaining the balance of the local ecosystem, including the Periyar Tiger Reserve, is essential. Changes in water levels and flow can affect flora and fauna, necessitating careful environmental management.

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