On Board Special Aircraft, Dec 17 (ANI): Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh today emphasized that the simmering row between Tamil Nadu and Kerala over the century-old Mullaperiyar Dam can be resolved through dialogue, debate and discussion.
"Both Tamil Nadu and Kerala are two very important states of our union. The well being of these states is very dear to the heart of Central government and to my heart as well. There is a problem that has arisen, it is my sincere belief that there is no problem that cannot be resolved through dialogue, debate and discussion," Dr. Singh said today during an on board press interaction while returning from Russia.
"I'm confident when two governments, their officials and Chief Ministers sit together we will be able to find a mutually satisfactory solution," he added.
He further said that he is trying to persuade both governments to sit together to solve the issue.
"I have not succeeded so far. I haven't given up hope if good sense prevails as I do believe it will prevail I have confidence in the leadership of Tamil Nadu and Kerala that in a mutually satisfactory manner this problem can be resolved," he added.
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.
Kerala 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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