Why is the public barred from visiting dams and lakes in TN?
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Synopsis
The Tamil Nadu Water Resources Department has restricted public access to dams, reservoirs, and lakes amid heavy monsoon inflows to ensure safety. This precautionary step is crucial as many water bodies are filling rapidly, leading to controlled releases from key dams. Residents are advised to stay vigilant during this period.
Key Takeaways
- Tamil Nadu Water Resources Department has restricted public access to water bodies.
- The ban is a response to heavy monsoon inflows creating safety hazards.
- Over 90 dams and 14,141 lakes are under WRD's management.
- Security measures have been enhanced around key water sources.
- Residents are advised to stay cautious during the monsoon season.
Chennai, Oct 23 (NationPress) The Tamil Nadu Water Resources Department (WRD) has enacted a statewide prohibition on public access to dams, reservoirs, and lakes under its management due to ongoing heavy inflows from the intensifying northeast monsoon.
This precautionary measure aims to address safety concerns, as numerous water bodies are rapidly reaching capacity, necessitating controlled discharges from several critical dams.
Official data indicates that the WRD oversees 90 major dams and 14,141 lakes throughout Tamil Nadu.
With relentless monsoon rains affecting various regions of the state, inflows into reservoirs have surged significantly in districts such as Salem, Erode, Theni, Madurai, Tiruvannamalai, Coimbatore, and Tiruvallur.
To ensure structural integrity and avert potential overflow, authorities have begun releasing excess water from many of these dams. Traditionally, residents from surrounding areas would visit these locations with their families to observe the scenic water releases or to appreciate the sight of full reservoirs. However, officials caution that such visits have become increasingly perilous during the monsoon.
“A slight slip or a sudden surge in water levels can result in catastrophic incidents. Therefore, for safety reasons, the department has prohibited public access to dams, lakes, and other water bodies,” stated a senior WRD official.
The department has also sought police assistance for major reservoirs experiencing heavy inflows. Security measures have been heightened, especially around vital water sources supplying drinking water to Chennai, including Chembarambakkam, Poondi, Puzhal, and Cholavaram lakes. These four reservoirs, situated in the Kancheepuram and Tiruvallur districts, are now under continuous surveillance, with police personnel deployed in shifts to maintain security and prevent unauthorized entry.
Officials have installed signboards and barriers at the entrances of various dams, warning the public against entering restricted areas.
The WRD has collaborated with district administrations and police to ensure stringent enforcement of safety protocols. Residents in low-lying areas downstream of rivers like Adyar, Kosasthalaiyar, and Vaigai have been advised to remain vigilant, as sudden water releases from upstream dams could cause unexpected rises in water levels.
The department reiterated that this decision is purely preventive and urged citizens to fully cooperate during the ongoing monsoon season.
Point of View
It’s essential to recognize the proactive measures taken by the Tamil Nadu Water Resources Department. Safety during monsoon seasons is paramount, and while restrictions may inconvenience some, they are vital for preventing accidents and ensuring public safety. Collaboration between authorities and the community is crucial to navigate this challenging weather period.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why has the public been barred from visiting dams?
The prohibition is a safety measure due to heavy monsoon inflows which increase the risk of accidents near water bodies.
How many dams and lakes are under the WRD's jurisdiction?
The Tamil Nadu Water Resources Department manages 90 major dams and 14,141 lakes across the state.
What areas are most affected by the monsoon?
Districts such as Salem, Erode, Theni, Madurai, Tiruvannamalai, Coimbatore, and Tiruvallur are experiencing significant inflows.
What precautions are being taken for safety?
Authorities have increased security around critical water sources and installed signboards and barriers to prevent unauthorized access.
What should residents in low-lying areas do?
Residents downstream of rivers like Adyar, Kosasthalaiyar, and Vaigai are advised to remain vigilant due to the potential for sudden water level rises.
