Supreme Court Intervenes in Mullaperiyar Dam Row: A Ticking Time Bomb Under Scrutiny

The Supreme Court has ignited a crucial discussion, issuing a notice to both Kerala and Tamil Nadu on a petition advocating for the decommissioning of the venerable, yet increasingly contentious, Mullaperiyar dam. This move comes as a prominent Kerala resident has sounded the alarm, characterizing the 126-year-old structure as a potential 'ticking time bomb' and urging immediate action to safeguard millions.

The plea, filed by Dr.

Jo Joseph, a resident of Idukki district in Kerala, squarely places the spotlight on the structural integrity of the century-old dam. Joseph's petition starkly highlights the immense danger posed to the lives of 3.5 million people residing downstream if the dam were to fail. The very foundation of this protracted inter-state dispute lies in the dam's unique operational arrangement: while geographically located in Kerala, its management and operational control fall under the purview of Tamil Nadu, a legacy of a 999-year lease agreement dating back to the British era.

The urgency of the situation is further underscored by the fact that the dam was constructed using outdated lime and surkhi mortar, raising serious questions about its resilience against modern-day environmental stresses, particularly in an earthquake-prone zone.

Dr. Joseph's plea meticulously details the historical context of the dam, tracing its origins to the 1886 Periyar Lake Lease Agreement. He points out that despite its age and construction methods, the dam continues to operate, a source of constant anxiety for the population living in its shadow.

The petition draws a chilling parallel to the devastating Kerala floods of 2018, when rising water levels in the dam triggered widespread fear and highlighted the catastrophic potential should the structure give way.

Joseph argues that the current safety measures and the existing dam management committee are insufficient to mitigate the grave risks associated with such an aged infrastructure. He specifically calls for a comprehensive review of the 999-year lease agreement, emphasizing that its continuation is not only a historical anomaly but also a direct threat to human lives.

A bench comprising Justices A.M.

Khanwilkar and C.T. Ravikumar has taken cognizance of these pressing concerns, seeking detailed responses from the involved states. This legal intervention marks a significant development in a dispute that has long simmered between Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Kerala has consistently advocated for the construction of a new dam, citing inherent dangers with the existing structure.

In stark contrast, Tamil Nadu has steadfastly maintained that the Mullaperiyar dam is structurally sound and poses no threat, primarily relying on its water for irrigation and drinking purposes in its southern districts.

The petitioner's request extends beyond mere decommissioning; he also seeks the constitution of an expert committee to meticulously assess the dam's structural integrity, as well as a review of the water-sharing mechanism.

This high-stakes legal battle will undoubtedly delve deep into engineering assessments, historical agreements, and the delicate balance between states' rights and the imperative of public safety. The Supreme Court's notice signals a renewed focus on a potential catastrophe, demanding a resolution that prioritizes the well-being of millions.