New Delhi, Dec 8 (ANI): Civil Aviation Minister Vayalar Ravi on Thursday appealed to the Tamil Nadu and Kerala Governments to resolve the ongoing row over the century-old Mullaperiyar Dam.
Speaking to reporters here, Ravi urged both governments to iron out their mutual differences for the sake of local residents.
"It can be solved. Unfortunately, it started from Kerala's side as well as Tamil Nadu's side. Innocent people being attacked both sides. (It is a) very sad thing. My appeal to persons of Kerala first, and Tamil Nadu, please do not hurt the innocent people living in both states," he added.
Ravi further said that the row could be resolved if the Kerala government released the amount of water needed by Tamil Nadu, in return for the construction of a new dam.
"There is a big furore. Public sentiments have been aroused in Kerala. People are scared whether anything can happen. This is the feeling. So what we suggest is there should be a compromise, that the Chief Minister of Kerala publicly announced he will give whatever the quantity of water they (Tamil Nadu) deserve, it will be given to them and requesting the Tamil Nadu government that they agree for a new dam. So, there is no dispute for giving the water on one side and they should agree for the construction of a new dam," said Ravi.
Kerala and Tamil Nadu are locked in a dispute over the dam located in Idduki District. The dam and the river are located in Kerala, but the dam is controlled and operated by Tamil Nadu. The safety of the dam has been a matter of concern and a point of dispute between the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
While Tamil Nadu, the custodian of the structure, wants to increase the water level in the reservoir, Kerala has been insisting that it be reduced from the current 136 feet to 120 feet.erala apprehends that this past-expiry date dam could crash and cause untold destruction in the state.
Kerala is arguing for the construction of a new dam at Mullaperiyar in place of the existing one, which is being opposed by Tamil Nadu. (ANI)
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