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The Comprehensive Guide to the Mullaperiyar Dam: History, Disputes, and Current Issues

Writer's picture: Abhinand PSAbhinand PS

The Mullaperiyar Dam: History, Disputes, and Everything You Need to Know

Introduction

The Mullaperiyar Dam, a century-old marvel, stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity. However, beneath its historical significance lies a contentious issue that has ignited disputes between two Indian states: Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The controversy over the dam's safety, water management, and legal battles has not only shaped regional politics but has also become a crucial topic for competitive exams like the UPSC. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the dam's history, the nature of the disputes, the current issues, and what makes it a significant subject for UPSC aspirants.



An aerial view of the Mullaperiyar Dam, a historic gravity dam located in the Western Ghats of India, with lush green surroundings and the Periyar River flowing beneath it. The dam's aged structure is highlighted, reflecting its significance in the water-sharing dispute between Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

A Brief History of the Mullaperiyar Dam

Constructed between 1887 and 1895 by the British under the reign of the Maharaja of Travancore, the Mullaperiyar Dam was built across the Periyar River in the Western Ghats. The dam was intended to divert water from the Periyar River basin in Kerala to the arid regions of Tamil Nadu. This engineering feat was achieved by creating a 175-feet tall gravity dam made of lime and surkhi (a mixture of brick powder and sugar).

Key Historical Events:

  • 1886: The lease agreement was signed between the Maharaja of Travancore and the British Government, granting Tamil Nadu rights to the water for 999 years.

  • 1895: The construction of the dam was completed.

  • 1979: Concerns over the dam's safety emerged following a devastating flood, leading to the first major disputes between Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

The Mullaperiyar Dam Dispute: Understanding the Core Issues

The Mullaperiyar Dam dispute is rooted in the agreement signed in 1886, which continues to govern the water-sharing arrangement. However, as time passed, the concerns over the dam's safety and the validity of the colonial-era agreement became points of contention between Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Safety Concerns and Legal Battles

Kerala argues that the dam, over a century old and situated in a seismically active zone, poses a significant risk to the lives of millions of people living downstream. In contrast, Tamil Nadu insists that the dam is safe, citing expert opinions and wanting to maintain the water levels to meet its irrigation needs.

This disagreement led to a series of legal battles, with the Supreme Court of India playing a crucial role in adjudicating the disputes. Despite numerous judgments, the issue remains unresolved, with both states maintaining their respective positions.

Current Issues Surrounding the Mullaperiyar Dam

The ongoing issues with the Mullaperiyar Dam are multi-faceted, involving safety concerns, water management, and regional politics. Understanding these issues is essential, especially for UPSC aspirants, as they touch upon several aspects of governance, federalism, and environmental conservation.

1. Dam Safety and Structural Integrity

  • The dam's age and the seismic activity in the region have raised alarms about its structural integrity.

  • Kerala's demand for a new dam or a reduction in the water level to 136 feet is countered by Tamil Nadu's insistence on maintaining the level at 142 feet.

2. Water Sharing and Interstate Disputes

  • The dam's water-sharing arrangement has been a significant source of conflict, with Tamil Nadu depending heavily on the water for irrigation and drinking purposes.

  • The dispute has led to tensions and has occasionally flared up into political issues during elections.

3. Environmental and Ecological Concerns

  • The surrounding environment, including the Periyar Tiger Reserve, is a critical ecological zone that could be impacted by any changes in the dam's operation or structure.

The Mullaperiyar Dam in the UPSC Context

For UPSC aspirants, the Mullaperiyar Dam is a quintessential case study of interstate water disputes, environmental conservation, and the challenges of federalism in India. The topic is relevant for several General Studies papers and can also be a potential topic for essays.

Detailed Table of the Mullaperiyar Dam Dispute

Aspect

Details

Dam Location

Thekkady, Idukki District, Kerala

Constructed By

British Government under the supervision of Pennycuick

Primary Purpose

Irrigation, drinking water supply to Tamil Nadu

Height of Dam

175 feet

Length of Dam

1,200 feet

Water Dispute

Between Kerala and Tamil Nadu over dam safety and water level

Legal Interventions

Multiple Supreme Court rulings, formation of supervisory committees

Current Water Level

Disputed between Kerala (wants it reduced) and Tamil Nadu (wants it maintained at 142 feet)

Environmental Concerns

Impact on the Periyar Tiger Reserve and surrounding ecosystems

Conclusion

The Mullaperiyar Dam dispute is not just a regional issue but a critical subject that reflects broader themes in governance, environmental sustainability, and federalism. For UPSC aspirants, understanding the nuances of this dispute, its historical background, and the ongoing legal and political battles is essential for a well-rounded preparation.

FAQs

  1. Why is the Mullaperiyar Dam disputed?

    • The dispute arises from safety concerns due to the dam's age and structural integrity, alongside water-sharing conflicts between Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

  2. What is the historical significance of the Mullaperiyar Dam?

    • Built by the British in the late 19th century, it serves as a crucial irrigation source for Tamil Nadu, making it a significant engineering feat of its time.

  3. How does the Mullaperiyar Dam impact UPSC preparations?

    • It is a key case study for understanding interstate disputes, environmental law, and the complexities of federal governance in India.

  4. What is Kerala's stance on the Mullaperiyar Dam?

    • Kerala demands the construction of a new dam or lowering the water level due to safety concerns.

  5. What role has the Supreme Court played in the Mullaperiyar dispute?

    • The Supreme Court has been instrumental in adjudicating the dispute, issuing several rulings to balance the interests of both states.

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