Will TN Farmers' Call for Modified Pandiyaru-Moyyar River Link Scheme Be Heard?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Farmers from western Tamil Nadu are calling on the Union government to implement a modified Pandiyaru-Moyyar river link project, aiming to alleviate severe water shortages in drought-prone areas. This initiative could be a game-changer for agriculture, providing much-needed relief to local farmers.
Key Takeaways
- Farmers in western Tamil Nadu are advocating for a modified river link project.
- The scheme aims to address chronic water scarcity in drought-prone districts.
- Implementation costs are estimated at Rs 90 crore.
- The project could significantly reduce reliance on groundwater resources.
- Farmers are calling for immediate government action.
Chennai, July 12 (NationPress) Farmers in western Tamil Nadu are urging the Union government to advocate for the execution of a revised version of the long-awaited Pandiyaru-Moyyar river link project. The request was articulated in a petition presented to Union Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan by the Tamilaga Vivasayigal Sangam this past Friday.
The farmers' group contended that the revised scheme would facilitate the diversion of water from west-flowing rivers in the Nilgiris hill region to the drought-stricken districts of Coimbatore, Tiruppur, and parts of Erode.
These areas are plagued by severe water shortages and lack significant irrigation infrastructure, as highlighted in the petition. The original Pandiyaru-Punnapuzha initiative, first envisioned over sixty years ago, aimed to redirect west-flowing rivers to Tamil Nadu for agricultural support in drought-affected regions.
Nonetheless, the project has remained unrealized, mainly due to the necessity of Kerala's consent, as the rivers in question traverse its territory.
Historical context shows that successive governments in Tamil Nadu have exhibited limited enthusiasm in advancing the scheme, likely due to interstate coordination hurdles. However, the farmers believe that a revamped version—the Pandiyaru-Moyyar link—could present a practical and economically feasible solution.
Referring to recent analyses by irrigation specialists, the Tamilaga Vivasayigal Sangam emphasized that the modified scheme could be executed at a mere cost of Rs 90 crore and, importantly, might not need Kerala's approval.
The proposed link involves channeling the Pandiyaru River into the Moyyar River, utilizing natural gradients and requiring minimal infrastructure changes. This method could greatly lessen the region's reliance on dwindling groundwater resources and rejuvenate agricultural activities in one of Tamil Nadu’s most agriculturally challenged areas, the petition asserted.
The farmers urged the Centre to step in and motivate the Tamil Nadu government to take prompt action toward realizing the revised project.
“With support from the Centre, this long-held aspiration can finally become a reality, providing critical assistance to countless farmers in western Tamil Nadu,” they concluded.
Point of View
I believe that addressing the water scarcity in Tamil Nadu is a pressing issue that deserves the government's immediate attention. The farmers' request for a modified river link scheme highlights their struggles and aspirations, and it is crucial for the authorities to engage constructively to explore viable solutions.
NationPress
17/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Pandiyaru-Moyyar river link project?
The Pandiyaru-Moyyar river link project is an initiative aimed at diverting water from west-flowing rivers in Tamil Nadu to support agriculture in drought-prone regions.
Why has the project not been implemented?
The project has faced delays primarily due to the need for consent from Kerala, as the rivers in question flow through its territory.
What are the potential benefits of the modified scheme?
The modified scheme could alleviate water shortages in Coimbatore, Tiruppur, and Erode, and reduce dependence on groundwater.
How much will the modified scheme cost?
Recent studies suggest that the modified scheme could be implemented at a cost of just Rs 90 crore.
What action are farmers seeking from the government?
Farmers are urging the Union government to intervene and encourage the Tamil Nadu government to move forward with the implementation of the modified project.
