Tamil Nadu releases 350 cusecs of water from Mullaperiyar dam
Tamil Nadu has resumed releasing 350 cusecs of water from the Mullaperiyar dam following a rise in water levels due to recent heavy rainfall. The water is intended for irrigation and drinking purposes across five districts, though local officials have raised concerns regarding water pollution.
Why it matters
Water management in the Mullaperiyar dam is a critical issue for regional agriculture and highlights ongoing tensions regarding infrastructure and environmental sanitation.
After a two-month gap, Tamil Nadu released 350 cusecs of water from the Mullaperiyar dam for agricultural and drinking purposes following an increase in water levels.
According to officials, Tamil Nadu normally releases water from the dam every year on June 1 for irrigation and drinking needs. However, due to the El Niño effect, monsoon rainfall in the catchment areas was very low through June and July, keeping the water level below 113 feet. Heavy rainfall over the past week subsequently raised the dam’s storage level to 122.30 feet on Saturday. Following the rise in water levels, farmers’ groups demanded an immediate release of water.
In response to the demand, water was released on Saturday and the supply will continue for the next 120 days. Out of the 350 cusecs, 200 cusecs are allocated for agricultural purposes and 150 cusecs for drinking water.
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