The Supreme Court of India,on October 13, 2025, issued a notice to the Union Government and the State of Tamil Nadu in response to a petition filed by the Kerala-based organization, Save Kerala Brigade. The petition seeks the decommissioning of the 130-year-old Mullaperiyar Dam and the construction of a new dam at the same site due to safety concerns.
A bench comprising Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran heard the matter. CJI Gavai acknowledged the dam’s age and potential risks, noting that approximately 10 million people live in close proximity to the structure. Senior Advocate V Giri, representing the petitioner, emphasized the urgency of the situation, highlighting the potential threat to human lives.
The Mullaperiyar Dam, constructed during British colonial rule, has been a longstanding point of contention between Kerala and Tamil Nadu. While Kerala contends that the dam is unsafe, Tamil Nadu maintains that it is structurally sound and continues to utilize its water for irrigation and power generation. In a 2014 judgment, the Supreme Court upheld the dam’s safety but directed that the water level be maintained at 142 feet, establishing a supervisory committee to oversee its management.
The Save Kerala Brigade’s petition underscores the need for a comprehensive reassessment of the dam’s safety and advocates for the construction of a new dam to mitigate potential risks. The Supreme Court’s notice marks a significant step in addressing the ongoing dispute and ensuring the safety of the affected populations.
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