Mullaperiyar: Kerala Assembly passes resolution for new dam

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Political parties joined hands to unanimously pass a resolution in the state Assembly today calling for a new dam to replace the 116-year-old structure at Mullaperiyar and lowering the water level in the dam to 120 ft from the present 136 ft.

 

After a three-hour discussion on a motion moved by Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, the special Assembly session unanimously passed the resolution expressing serious concern over the safety of millions of people living downstream of the dam.

 

The Chief Minister said construction of a new dam to replace the existing structure was the only solution to solve the vexed issue with Tamil Nadu. Kerala was ready to give Mullaperiyar water to Tamil Nadu even after the construction of a new dam, he said, adding it was sad that the neighbouring state was not considering the safety of the people of Kerala.

 

Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Leader of the Opposition Kodiyeri Balakrishnan said the level should be brought down immediately in view of the dangerous situation.

 

If the Centre's intervention on the issue was delayed, the consequences would be disastrous, he said.

 

Members representing various political parties expressed serious concern over the safety of the three million people living downstream in view of the frequent earthquakes in the region. They pointed out that the dam was weak and it could not withstand a major earthquake.

 

NNN

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