Will the TN PAP canal breach delay water release?
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Synopsis
Chennai's Water Resources Department faces pressure as farmers demand swift action following a significant breach in the PAP canal. With repairs underway, local cultivators stress the urgency of restoring water flow for their crops. The situation underscores the critical need for immediate attention to irrigation needs amidst ongoing challenges.
Key Takeaways
- Urgent repairs are underway on the PAP canal.
- The breach has severely impacted local farmers.
- Water release will resume post-repairs.
- Local authorities are monitoring the situation closely.
- Farmers are advocating for timely water supply.
Chennai, Nov 26 (NationPress) The Water Resources Department (WRD) has declared that water for the fifth wetting of the fourth zone under the Parambikulam Aliyar Project (PAP) will be released only after essential repairs are completed on the severely damaged sections of the main canal.
Officials mentioned that inspection teams are currently pinpointing vulnerable areas along the canal's 124-km stretch, with restoration efforts being prioritized.
A significant breach occurred on November 13 at Vavipalayam near Palladam in Tiruppur district, where the bank of the PAP main canal collapsed.
This canal, which transports irrigation water from the Thirumurthy dam located in Udumalaipet, overflowed into agricultural lands, residential areas, and even school grounds in the village. Consequently, local authorities declared a holiday for the affected school.
In response to the breach, the WRD promptly suspended water discharge from the Thirumurthy dam.
To reduce further impact and prevent wastage, the already flowing water was redirected at the 46-km mark of the canal to the Uppar dam in Dharapuram, Tiruppur.
The Uppar dam, with a capacity of 576 mcft and a depth of 24 feet, is intended to hold surplus water from the PAP system.
This diversion provided relief to local farmers, who had recently requested more inflow to the reservoir.
However, the suspension of irrigation supplies from the Thirumurthy dam has left farmers anxious, even days after the incident.
As the fifth wetting is vital for crops, cultivators have called on the WRD to expedite repairs and ensure consistent supply soon.
GV Viveganandan, Secretary of the PAP Welfare Association, emphasized the urgency of restoring the canal.
"There should be no delay in releasing irrigation water. Simultaneously, the most critically damaged sections must be repaired without delay. For instance, at the 86.9-km mark, the canal bank has sustained major damage and requires immediate attention," he stated.
A senior WRD official confirmed that three critically damaged locations have been identified along the canal.
"Repair operations are in progress and will be finished in a few days. Once completed, water will be released for the fifth wetting of the fourth zone. Typically, water is supplied for 15 days for this wetting, but considering the circumstances, we are planning to provide up to nine days of supply," the official added.
Farmers believe that even a shorter supply period would be advantageous, provided the release commences without further delay.
Point of View
The situation surrounding the PAP canal breach highlights the delicate balance between infrastructure integrity and agricultural needs. The response from the Water Resources Department will be crucial in determining the agricultural output for the season, echoing the importance of timely intervention in water management systems across the country.
NationPress
26/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the PAP canal breach?
The breach was caused by significant structural failure at the canal bank near Vavipalayam, resulting in overflow into surrounding areas.
How is the Water Resources Department addressing the issue?
The WRD is conducting inspections and prioritizing repairs on the damaged stretches of the canal before resuming water release.
How does this affect local farmers?
The delay in water release has heightened anxiety among farmers, as the fifth wetting is critical for their standing crops.
What is the capacity of the Uppar dam?
The Uppar dam has a capacity of 576 mcft and is designed to store surplus water from the PAP system.
When can farmers expect water release?
While repair work is ongoing, the WRD plans to resume water release for up to nine days once repairs are completed.
