The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) on Wednesday shut down the Idukki Underground Powerhouse after a leak was detected on a valve body. The damage was spotted in the upstream seals of Units 5 and 6. Authorities have started draining water from the penstock pipe and pressure tunnel using one generator, with valve removal work set to begin within two days.

Despite the shutdown, KSEB has ensured an uninterrupted power supply in the state by purchasing 1,096 MW of electricity through interstate arrangements.

Authorities closed the plant from November 11 to December 10 because, if the leak is not fixed, high-pressure water could flood the underground powerhouse, posing serious risks to both employees and equipment.

To address possible water supply issues during the maintenance period, the Power and Irrigation Ministers held discussions earlier this month, followed by a government order on November 6 approving the shutdown and outlining measures to maintain water availability. A state-level committee led by the KSEB Chairman and Managing Director and a field-level committee headed by the Ernakulam District Collector have been formed to oversee operations.

Water supply will be maintained for the first nine days using controlled releases from the Malankara Dam. Temporary sandbag dams may also be set up at key pumping stations in Thodupuzha, Mooppilkadavu, Thekkumala, and Arakuzha Moozhi if needed.

Plans are in place to transport water through canals from Bhoothathankettu and open branch canals under the Periyar Valley Irrigation Project once ongoing maintenance on other canals is completed. Water will also be delivered to higher regions using tanker lorries.

The weather forecast indicates the possibility of rain until November 20, which may help ease the water situation.

The Additional Chief Secretaries of the Power and Water Resources Departments will coordinate with district disaster management authorities to minimise public inconvenience. KSEB has assured that the maintenance work will be completed within the scheduled period.