Mullaperiyar Dam: A Comprehensive Guide to Its History, Disputes, and Current Status
Introduction
The Mullaperiyar Dam, an engineering marvel of the 19th century, remains a critical yet controversial structure due to its location, age, and the ongoing disputes between Kerala and Tamil Nadu. This article delves into its historical significance, engineering details, and the current controversies, providing a comprehensive overview.
Table of Contents
1. History and Construction
The Mullaperiyar Dam was constructed between 1887 and 1895 by the British government under a lease agreement with the Kingdom of Travancore (modern-day Kerala). The primary purpose was to divert water from the Periyar River to the drought-prone regions of Tamil Nadu, benefiting agriculture.
Table 1: Key Milestones in the Construction of Mullaperiyar Dam
Year | Milestone |
1887 | Construction begins under British supervision |
1895 | Completion of the dam |
1959 | Tamil Nadu gains control under a renewed lease |
1979 | Safety concerns due to dam aging |
2. Geographical Significance
Situated at the confluence of the Western Ghats, the dam creates the Periyar Thekkady Reservoir. This geographical location is crucial for both Kerala and Tamil Nadu, serving as a lifeline for irrigation in Tamil Nadu and a significant water source for Kerala.
3. Ongoing Disputes
The dispute over the Mullaperiyar Dam primarily revolves around water allocation and dam safety. Kerala advocates for a new dam due to safety concerns given the structure's age and seismic sensitivity of the area. Tamil Nadu, however, opposes this, citing the dam’s importance for irrigation.
4. Safety Concerns and Measures
Given the dam's age and the region's seismic activity, several safety measures have been proposed and implemented, including structural reinforcements and continuous monitoring. However, the fear of a potential catastrophe remains a point of contention.
5. Current Status and Future Outlook
As of 2024, the dam continues to operate under Tamil Nadu's jurisdiction, with ongoing legal and political battles. Future resolutions may involve new infrastructural projects or revisions to the existing agreements.
Conclusion
The Mullaperiyar Dam stands as a testament to historical engineering feats and a focal point of modern-day inter-state water disputes. Its future will likely involve complex negotiations and significant infrastructural decisions to balance safety and water needs.
FAQs
Why is the Mullaperiyar Dam controversial? The controversy stems from its age, safety concerns, and disputes over water allocation between Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
What are the main safety concerns? The dam's age and location in a seismically active zone raise concerns about its structural integrity.
How does the dam benefit Tamil Nadu? It diverts water to the arid regions of Tamil Nadu, supporting irrigation and agriculture.
What are Kerala’s concerns regarding the dam? Kerala is concerned about the potential safety risks posed by the aging structure and advocates for a new dam.
What is the current legal status of the dispute? The issue is under ongoing legal review, with no final resolution yet reached.
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