Synopsis
The Tamil Nadu government plans to build a dam on the Palar River near Venkodi for Rs 70 crore, aiming to enhance water security and irrigation in the region. Water Resources Minister S. Duraimurugan emphasized its importance during the Assembly session.Key Takeaways
- The dam will span 1,600 meters.
- It aims to recharge borewells in 12 villages.
- Supports irrigation for about 2,400 acres of farmland.
- It is crucial for the region’s water security.
- Interstate cooperation is needed for further progress.
Chennai, March 17 (NationPress) The government of Tamil Nadu is preparing to construct a dam across the Palar River near Venkodi, with an estimated budget of Rs 70 crore, as stated by Water Resources Minister S. Duraimurugan during the Assembly session on Monday.
In response to a query from Uthiramerur MLA K. Sundar, the experienced DMK leader underlined the significance of this initiative.
The envisioned dam will extend over 1,600 metres and is anticipated to bring substantial advantages to the area, such as enhanced groundwater levels and improved irrigation.
Duraimurugan pointed out that the dam would facilitate the recharge of borewells in 12 villages and aid irrigation for around 2,400 acres of agricultural land.
"This dam is vital for the water security of the region. We are dedicated to prioritizing its construction while considering the state's financial capabilities," he remarked.
This announcement arrives as the government engages in deliberations regarding budget allocations for essential infrastructure projects, particularly in the domains of water management and agriculture.
The Palar River, which originates in the Nandi Hills of Karnataka, traverses through Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu before flowing into the Bay of Bengal near Vayalur, approximately 75 kilometres south of Chennai. Despite its historical importance, the river has been severely impacted by water scarcity, with no full-scale flow recorded in the past decade due to low rainfall in the basin.
The Palar has seven tributaries, with the Cheyyar River being the largest.
Designated as an interstate water body, the river is regulated by the 1892 agreement under the Interstate River Water Disputes Act, 1956.
This agreement stipulates that any new dam or water diversion structure requires the approval of downstream states, necessitating further negotiations between Tamil Nadu and its neighboring states. Over the years, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have addressed recurring droughts by constructing numerous minor and medium-scale irrigation tanks. These efforts have improved both surface and groundwater irrigation, yet the region still faces water shortages.
The challenges faced by the Palar River have been documented in En Peyar Palar, an 85-minute documentary created by the Social Action Movement and the Water Rights Protection Group in Chengalpattu.
Released on June 30, 2008, the film underscores the detrimental effects of rampant sand quarrying and industrial pollution on one of Tamil Nadu's crucial water sources.
With the planned dam, the Tamil Nadu government aspires to alleviate these issues and ensure long-term water availability for the farmers and residents of the region. However, the project's success will hinge on financial viability, environmental factors, and interstate collaboration.
