Thiruvananthapuram: The latest ruling of the Supreme Court of India in the Mullaperiyar case has given an advantage to Kerala in the dispute with Tamil Nadu over the safety of the dam, which is located on the border between the two states.

The apex court has now ordered another safety check of the dam after 12 years and given total administrative control of the facility to the supervisory committee.

“The court has approved most of the requests placed before it by Kerala. This is a good sign,” said Alex Varghese, Chief Engineer (Irrigation and Inter-state Waters).

Factors favouring Kerala

With the safety check taking place, Kerala can demand inspection of the over-a-century-old dam by an international agency. In case the inspection proves Kerala’s contention regarding the weakening of the dam, the state can proceed smoothly with measures to build a new dam.

As a technical expert from Kerala also would be part of the supervisory panel, the state would be able to explain its points better. Moreover, people in Kerala residing in areas which are under threat in case the dam suffers a breach could present their apprehensions before the committee.

Meanwhile, the Central Water Commission also submitted a report recommending a new safety inspection. This development also strengthens Kerala’s position.

Future scenario

Kerala’s constant stand that the dam is weak would receive a boost if the safety check finds evidence to this effect. Such a finding would also prove wrong Tamil Nadu’s claims over the years that Mullaperiyar is strong.

However, in case the inspection finds that the dam had no damage, Tamil Nadu would demand an increase of the water level to 152 feet after strengthening the Baby Dam near the main Mullaperiyar Dam.

Verdict will see shutters don't open at night: Roshy Augustine

Welcoming the Supreme Court's verdict on the Mullaperiyar issue, Minister for Irrigation and Water Supply Roshy Augustine said the apex court has rightly taken the State's demands into consideration while passing the current order.

"With the Dam Safety Authority coming into effect, Kerala too will have a say in the functioning of the dam. This way, the State can ensure that the shutters won't be opened at night," said the minister.

The court gave its nod to conduct safety checks and appoint technical experts for the same, which were demands put forth by Kerala.

He said the government is yet to decide on the committee representative from Kerala.