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Topic : Mullaperiyar Dam Dispute: Kerala’s New Dam Proposal Rejected

Background

Mullaperiyar dam, over a century old, is located in Kerala’s Idukki district but owned and operated by Tamil Nadu.
The dam’s safety and management have been a source of contention between the two states for decades.

Kerala’s Proposal

Kerala proposed a new dam to replace the ageing Mullaperiyar structure, citing:
- Recent floods
- Changes in environmental conditions
- Need for updated data

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

A process to evaluate environmental, social, and economic impacts of a project.
Aims to:
- Predict environmental impacts early in planning.
- Reduce adverse impacts.
- Shape projects to suit the local environment.
- Inform decision-makers.
Backed by the Environment Protection Act, 1986.
Involves multiple stages: screening, scoping, data collection, impact prediction, mitigation measures, public hearing, decision-making, monitoring, and risk assessment.
Stakeholders include project proponents, environmental consultants, pollution control boards, the public, and the Impact Assessment Agency.
Categorized into A (complete EIA process) and B (partial EIA process).

Tamil Nadu’s Opposition

Strongly opposes the new dam due to reliance on Mullaperiyar dam water for irrigation.
Argues that the existing dam is safe (approved by experts and Supreme Court).
Views a new dam as a violation of court orders and potential contempt of court.

Legal Battles

The dispute has led to numerous legal battles concerning:
- Dam safety
- Water resource jurisdiction
- Objections to each other’s actions

Challenges

Consensus between Kerala and Tamil Nadu is crucial for any significant development.
Kerala needs Tamil Nadu’s consent for a new dam (as per Supreme Court order).
Deeply entrenched positions and historical animosity make achieving consensus difficult.

Mullaperiyar Dam Facts