The water level in the Mullaperiyar dam has recently been reported at 119.60 feet on December 5, 2024, and 119.90 feet on February 14, 2026. While these levels are below the maximum permissible limit of 142 feet, the dam's safety and management remain a point of contention between the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. This ongoing dispute has led to significant public interest and scrutiny regarding the dam's structural integrity and the responsible allocation of its water resources.
Background: A Dam's Lifespan and State Relations
The Mullaperiyar dam, a gravity dam constructed over 125 years ago, has been a focal point of a long-standing disagreement. The dam, located in Kerala, provides water to Tamil Nadu for irrigation and drinking purposes. This arrangement, established through a lease agreement, has become increasingly complicated due to differing interpretations of safety regulations and the dam's aging infrastructure.
Construction: The dam was built between 1887 and 1895.
Purpose: It serves as a critical water source for downstream areas in Tamil Nadu.
Location: Situated in Kerala.
Controversy: Concerns revolve around the dam's structural longevity and the potential risks associated with its current water levels, particularly in the context of its age.
Recent Water Level Data and Operational Discharge
Recent reports provide specific data on the dam's operational status.
On December 5, 2024, the water level was 119.60 feet.
The inflow was 556 cusecs.
The discharge was 844 cusecs.
The combined storage in the Periyar credit was 3,875.34 mcft.
On February 14, 2026, the water level was 119.90 feet.
The inflow was nil.
The discharge was 700 cusecs.
The combined storage in the Periyar credit was 3,565.15 mcft.
These figures indicate a consistent operational pattern with significant water discharge, even when inflow is minimal. The management of these levels is a crucial aspect of the ongoing inter-state discussions.
The Core of the Dispute: Safety vs. Water Allocation
The divergence in opinions between Kerala and Tamil Nadu hinges on fundamental disagreements about the dam's safety and the subsequent management protocols.
Kerala's Stance: Prioritizing Structural Integrity
Kerala has consistently voiced concerns about the dam's aging structure. The state has advocated for decommissioning the dam, citing safety risks and the potential for catastrophic failure.
Arguments: Kerala emphasizes the potential hazards posed by an aging dam, especially in a region prone to seismic activity.
Proposed Solution: The state has called for the construction of a new dam to replace the existing structure.
Tamil Nadu's Position: Ensuring Water Supply Continuity
Tamil Nadu, which relies heavily on the Mullaperiyar dam for its water needs, opposes any measures that could disrupt its water supply.
Arguments: Tamil Nadu highlights the dam's continued utility and the critical dependence of its agricultural sector on the dam's water.
Counter-Argument: The state maintains that the dam is structurally sound and can be operated safely, often referencing historical data and maintenance records.
Evidence of Structural Concerns and Technical Assessments
Information regarding the dam's structural condition has been a recurring theme in discussions and reports.
Age: The dam's age is a primary factor contributing to Kerala's safety concerns.
Maintenance: Both states have presented their views on the adequacy of maintenance and repair efforts over the years.
Expert Opinions: Technical assessments and expert opinions have been sought and presented by both sides, often leading to conflicting interpretations of the data.
Expert Analysis: Perspectives on Dam Safety and Inter-State Water Management
Experts in dam engineering and water resource management have offered varying viewpoints on the Mullaperiyar issue.
Structural Longevity: Some engineers express that while older dams require rigorous monitoring, their lifespan can be extended through diligent maintenance and adherence to safety protocols. Others argue that the cumulative effects of age and environmental factors make older dams inherently more vulnerable, irrespective of maintenance.
Water Level Management: The debate over the maximum permissible water level is intrinsically linked to safety perceptions. Kerala's push for a lower limit is based on its risk assessment, while Tamil Nadu's insistence on a higher level is driven by its water requirements.
Conclusion: An Unresolved Stalemate with Significant Ramifications
The Mullaperiyar dam issue represents a complex interplay of historical agreements, engineering concerns, and the immediate needs of two states. The reported water levels, while currently within specified limits, serve as a backdrop to the persistent underlying tensions.
Findings: The dam's structural integrity remains a point of contention, with Kerala advocating for safety-driven measures and Tamil Nadu emphasizing water security.
Implications: The unresolved nature of this dispute could have far-reaching consequences for water availability in Tamil Nadu and the safety of communities in Kerala.
Next Steps: Continued dialogue, transparent technical evaluations, and a willingness from both states to engage in constructive compromise will be essential to reaching a sustainable solution. The role of central authorities in facilitating these discussions and ensuring adherence to any agreed-upon protocols is also significant.
Sources Used:
"Water level in Mullaperiyar dam stands at 119.60 feet on December 5, 2024" - The Hindu: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/water-level-in-mullaperiyar-dam-stands-at-11960-feet-on-december-5-2024/article68951715.ece
"Water level in Mullaperiyar dam stands at 119.90 feet" - The Hindu: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/water-level-in-mullaperiyar-dam-stands-at-11990-feet-on-february-14-2026/article70632391.ece