We want a new dam in Mullaperiyar: Oommen Chandy

Nov 21, 2011 |

New Delhi

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Kerala on Monday insisted on building a new dam near the existing Mullaperiyar dam in the wake of reports that the recent tremors had caused damage to it, an issue on which the state has been at loggerheads with Tamil Nadu.

Tamil Nadu has always been opposed to constructing a new dam near the existing structure, which supplies water to its several southern districts. The dam is located in Kerala's Idukki district bordering Tamil Nadu.

An 11-member Kerala ministerial delegation led by Chief Minister Oommen Chandy today met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and informed him about the frequent recurrence of tremors in Idukki district where 116-year-old dam is located.

"Kerala's stand is very clear. We want a new dam in Mullaperiyar. We want to ensure the safety of our people," Chandy told reporters after meeting the Prime Minister.

He said the delegation informed the Prime Minister about the leakage in the dam following a tremor on Saturday.

"The Prime Minister agreed with the need to provide safety for all the citizens. He agreed about need for an early settlement of the dispute between Kerala and Tamil Nadu over the issue, which is pending before the Supreme Court," the Chief Minister said.

Reacting to a query on Tamil Nadu's argument that a new dam was against its interest, Chandy said, "We are not against Tamil Nadu's interest. We are ready to give them water".

He added that Kerala was always willing to alleviate apprehension of Tamil Nadu on the issue.

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