Why is there a delay in repairing the Siruvani Dam leakage as monsoon approaches?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
With the southwest monsoon just around the corner, the delay in repairing the Siruvani Dam has raised significant alarms. This crucial water source for Coimbatore is facing serious leakage issues. Experts warn that immediate action is essential to prevent further water loss that could worsen the city’s water crisis.
Key Takeaways
- Delay in repairs at the Siruvani Dam is raising concerns.
- 10 MLD of water loss reported daily due to leakage.
- Repair work is crucial as the monsoon season approaches.
- Experts recommend grouting and geomembrane lining as solutions.
- Collaboration between Tamil Nadu and Kerala is necessary for successful repairs.
Chennai, May 22 (NationPress) As the southwest monsoon approaches, apprehensions are mounting regarding the delay in commencing essential repair operations at the Siruvani Dam, a crucial source of drinking water for the city of Coimbatore.
Authorities have indicated that approximately 10 million litres per day (MLD) of water is being lost due to leakage from the dam. This amount is adequate to satisfy Coimbatore’s household water requirements for three days.
Experts assert that if the leakage is repaired promptly, around 50 to 55 MLD of water could be retained during the peak summer months, a vital resource for the urban populace.
A joint inspection to evaluate and address the situation was conducted on January 8, featuring five teams from the Central Water and Power Research Station (CWPRS), Tamil Nadu Water Supply and Drainage (TWAD) Board, Indian Institute of Technology-Madras (IIT-M), Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation (CCMC), and the Kerala Water Resources Department.
Post-inspection, a detailed technical report was delivered by the CWPRS team to CCMC Commissioner M. Sivaguru Prabakaran.
The report detailed the severity of the damage and proposed steps to mitigate the seepage and improve dam safety.
The team based in Pune recommended two possible solutions: grouting and the implementation of a geomembrane lining. Sources from the Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation informed IANS that authorities in Tamil Nadu are currently awaiting final cost assessments from the Kerala Water Resources and Irrigation Department, which is tasked with executing the repairs.
These assessments will be formulated based on the suggestions provided by the dam safety specialists.
Once Kerala submits the in-depth cost estimations, the government of Tamil Nadu is expected to allocate the required funds, allowing the repair efforts to be carried out by the authorities in Kerala.
However, with the monsoon looming, environmentalists and civic organizations are urging both state governments to hasten the process. Any additional delays could lead to the loss of valuable rainwater from the reservoir, exacerbating the already critical water situation in Coimbatore.
Located in Kerala, the Siruvani Dam is a vital water source for millions of citizens in neighboring Tamil Nadu. The increasing water loss due to unchecked seepage has raised alarms among officials and residents, highlighting the urgent requirement for timely action.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the significance of timely maintenance and repairs of vital infrastructure such as the Siruvani Dam. The ongoing water crisis in Coimbatore underscores the interconnectedness of regional resources and the urgent need for collaboration between states. Every effort must be made to prioritize the repair work to ensure the well-being of millions reliant on this key water source.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the Siruvani Dam repairs?
The repairs at the Siruvani Dam have been delayed, and local authorities are awaiting cost estimates from the Kerala Water Resources Department.
How much water is being lost due to the dam's leakage?
Currently, about 10 million litres per day (MLD) is being lost due to seepage from the Siruvani Dam.
Why is the repair of the Siruvani Dam urgent?
As the southwest monsoon approaches, the continued leakage could exacerbate the water crisis in Coimbatore, impacting millions.
What solutions have been proposed for the dam's leakage?
Experts have suggested two potential solutions: grouting and the application of a geomembrane lining.
Who conducted the inspection of the dam?
A joint inspection was carried out by teams from the Central Water and Power Research Station, TWAD Board, IIT-Madras, Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation, and the Kerala Water Resources Department.
