The Supreme Court of India instructed the newly constituted supervisory committee overseeing the Mullaperiyar Dam’s safety to address repair and maintenance concerns raised by Tamil Nadu. The committee has been given four weeks to submit its report.
- Historical Context: Constructed in the late 19th century, the Mullaperiyar Dam is located in Kerala but is operated and maintained by Tamil Nadu under a 999-year lease agreement established in 1886. This arrangement has been a source of disputes, especially concerning the dam’s safety and water management.
- Location: Situated in the Idukki district of Kerala, the dam stands at an elevation of 881 meters above sea level in the Cardamom Hills.
- River Systems: The dam is built at the confluence of the Mullayar and Periyar
- Surroundings: The reservoir created by the dam is encompassed by the Periyar National Park, a protected wildlife sanctuary.