Interstate Relations and Water Disputes (e.g., Mullaperiyar Dam)

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Kerala, a state defined by its lush landscapes and intricate river systems, often finds its interstate relationships intertwined with the sharing of these vital water resources. While cooperation exists on many fronts, water disputes, particularly concerning the Mullaperiyar Dam, have historically been a point of contention between Kerala and its neighbors.

The Mullaperiyar Dam: A Century-Old Dispute

The Mullaperiyar Dam, a 127-year-old gravity dam in Kerala's Idukki district, stands as a symbol of both shared resources and enduring conflict. Built by the British in 1895, the dam is geographically located in Kerala but is owned and operated by Tamil Nadu, as per a 999-year lease agreement signed during the colonial era. This unique arrangement has led to a complex and long-standing dispute between the two states.
Kerala's Concerns:

Dam Safety: The dam's age and structural integrity are a major concern for Kerala. The state argues that the dam is vulnerable to earthquakes and poses a significant risk to the lives and livelihoods of millions residing downstream.

Water Sharing: Kerala contends that the current water sharing agreement is unfair and seeks a greater share of the water stored in the dam.

Environmental Impact: Kerala also raises concerns about the environmental impact of the dam, including deforestation and loss of biodiversity.

Tamil Nadu's Stance:

Water Needs: Tamil Nadu heavily relies on the Mullaperiyar Dam for irrigation and drinking water, particularly for the arid districts of Theni, Madurai, Dindigul, and Sivaganga. The state argues that any reduction in water storage or supply would severely impact its agricultural and economic activities.

Dam Safety: Tamil Nadu maintains that the dam is safe and has undergone necessary repairs and strengthening measures. It insists on its right to operate the dam as per the lease agreement.

Legal Battles and Resolutions:
The Mullaperiyar Dam dispute has seen numerous legal battles in the Supreme Court of India. In 2014, the Court upheld Tamil Nadu's right to raise the water level in the dam, while also directing the formation of a Supervisory Committee to address safety concerns. However, the dispute remains unresolved, with both states continuing to advocate for their respective interests.

Other Interstate Water Disputes

While the Mullaperiyar Dam dispute dominates the discourse, Kerala also faces water-related challenges with its other neighbors:

Cauvery River Dispute: Kerala is a lower riparian state in the Cauvery River basin. While its water needs from the Cauvery are relatively small, Kerala seeks to protect its interests amidst the larger dispute between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

Parambikulam-Aliyar Project (PAP): This inter-basin water transfer project between Kerala and Tamil Nadu has also seen disagreements over water sharing and the implementation of the project agreement.

The Way Forward

Addressing Kerala's interstate water disputes requires a multi-faceted approach:

Dialogue and Negotiation: Open and constructive dialogue between the concerned states is crucial for finding mutually acceptable solutions.

Scientific Assessments: Independent and comprehensive assessments of dam safety, water availability, and environmental impact are essential for informed decision-making.

River Basin Management: Adopting an integrated river basin management approach can help ensure equitable and sustainable water use for all states involved.

Interstate River Water Disputes Act: Strengthening the legal and institutional framework for resolving interstate water disputes is vital for timely and effective resolutions.

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