Kerala Minister says SC directions on Mullaperiyar dam unimplemented, objects to any water level hike by T.N.
Kerala's Water Resources Minister Mons Joseph has warned that the state will challenge Tamil Nadu in the Supreme Court if they attempt to raise the Mullaperiyar dam's water level beyond 142 feet. Kerala maintains that safety inspections mandated by the Supreme Court have not been completed, raising concerns about the dam's structural integrity.
Why it matters
The Mullaperiyar dam is a long-standing point of contention between Kerala and Tamil Nadu, with significant implications for regional water security and public safety.
Kerala Water Resources Minister Mons Joseph on Thursday (August 6, 2026) said key directions issued by the Supreme Court on the safety of the Mullaperiyar dam have not been complied with and warned that Kerala would approach the apex court if Tamil Nadu proceeded with its reported move to raise the reservoir’s water level beyond 142 feet.
His remarks came a day after the Tamil Nadu government, in its Budget, announced plans to pursue raising the water level of the 131-year-old Mullaperiyar reservoir in Kerala’s Idukki district.
Addressing reporters in Kottayam district, Mr. Joseph said Kerala’s stand “remains unchanged” that the water level should not be raised beyond 142 feet under any circumstances.
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