Thiruvananthapuram: Noting that construction of a new dam across the Mullaiperiyar to replace the 113-year old existing structure was "inevitable", Kerala Government on Friday earmarked Rs 10 crore in its budget for 2010-11 for a detailed study of the project.
Presenting the budget, State Finance Minister T M Thomas Issac said considering the safety and interest of the people of Kerala, it was inevitable to construct a new dam which will also ensure sufficient water to Tamil Nadu.
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"For the detailed study of the dam, Rs 10 crore is being set apart," Issac said.
Kerala is locked in a bitter tussle with Tamil Nadu over the dam located in Idduki District. Though located in Kerala, the dam caters to the irrigation and drinking water needs of Tamil Nadu and is under its control.
Kerala, citing safety of the dam, wants to demolish the existing structure and construct a new one at an alternative location which Tamil Nadu is opposed to.
Mullaperiyar dam is safe, says Tamil Nadu Govt
The Union Environment and Forest Ministry has recently given its nod for a preliminary survey to which Tamil Nadu has objected and taken the matter to Supreme Court, which however refused to stay it.
