Synopsis
The Tamil Nadu government is embarking on the construction of a dam along the Palar River near Venkodi, with an estimated cost of Rs 70 crore. Water Resources Minister S. Duraimurugan emphasized the project's significance for improving local water security and irrigation.Key Takeaways
- Dam construction on Palar River at Rs 70 crore.
- Expected benefits include improved groundwater levels.
- Will support irrigation for about 2,400 acres of farmland.
- Project aims to enhance water security in the region.
- Requires cooperation with neighboring states.
Chennai, March 17 (NationPress) The Tamil Nadu government is preparing to construct a dam on the Palar River close to Venkodi, with an estimated expenditure of Rs 70 crore, as announced 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 underscored the project’s significance.
The planned dam will extend 1,600 metres and is anticipated to deliver considerable advantages to the area, such as elevated groundwater levels and improved irrigation.
Duraimurugan noted that the dam would aid in recharging borewells in 12 villages and facilitate irrigation for roughly 2,400 acres of farmland.
"This dam is vital for the region’s water security. We are dedicated to prioritizing its construction, considering the state’s financial capabilities," he mentioned.
This announcement arrives as the government engages in budget discussions for critical infrastructure projects, especially in the realms of water management and agriculture.
The Palar River originates from the Nandi Hills of Karnataka and traverses through Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu before discharging into the Bay of Bengal near Vayalur, located about 75 kilometres south of Chennai. Despite its historical importance, the river has been grappling with severe water scarcity, with no full-scale flow registered in the past decade due to insufficient rainfall in the basin.
The Palar has seven tributaries, with the Cheyyar River being the most significant.
The river is categorized as an interstate water body, regulated by the 1892 agreement under the Interstate River Water Disputes Act, 1956.
According to this agreement, any new dam or water-diverting structure necessitates the approval of downstream states, which will require further discussions between Tamil Nadu and its neighboring states. Over the years, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have addressed recurring droughts by establishing numerous minor and medium-scale irrigation tanks. These efforts have enhanced both surface and groundwater irrigation, yet the region continues to face water shortages.
The challenges faced by the Palar River have been illustrated in En Peyar Palar, an 85-minute documentary produced by the Social Action Movement and the Water Rights Protection Group, Chengalpattu.
Released on June 30, 2008, the film showcases the effects of excessive sand quarrying and industrial pollution on one of Tamil Nadu’s essential water resources.
With the proposed dam, the Tamil Nadu government aims to alleviate these challenges and ensure long-term water availability for local farmers and residents. Nevertheless, the project's success will hinge on financial viability, environmental factors, and interstate collaboration.
