Kerala Minister V.D. Satheesan Says New Mullaperiyar Dam Will Supply Full Water to Tamil Nadu

Kerala's water resources minister V.D. Satheesan told reporters that the state is prepared to channel all water from the newly constructed Mullaperiyar dam to Tamil Nadu, fulfilling the inter‑state allocation agreed upon in recent negotiations. The statement was made during a press briefing in Thiruvananthapuram, where the minister emphasized the government's commitment to honouring the water‑sharing pact.

The Mullaperiyar project, located in the Idukki district, has been under construction for several years and is expected to augment the existing reservoir capacity. Historically, the dam has been a flashpoint between Kerala and Tamil Nadu, with disputes over safety concerns and water release schedules. The new structure incorporates modern safety features designed to address long‑standing apprehensions.

Satheesan said the decision to allocate the full water quota aims to ease agricultural distress in Tamil Nadu's downstream districts while maintaining adequate flow for Kerala's own irrigation needs. He added that the water will be released according to a pre‑determined schedule, monitored by a joint technical committee representing both states.

The announcement has been welcomed by Tamil Nadu officials, who view it as a positive step toward stabilising water supplies for crops and drinking purposes. Both state governments have pledged to continue dialogue through the existing inter‑state water management board to ensure smooth operation of the dam.