Save Kerala from the threat of Mullaperiyar Dam
The Issue
As a human being, the safety of life is our most fundamental requirement. Mullaperiyar Dam has long been a looming danger for the people of Kerala. Built during the British era, this 126-year-old gravity dam poses a significant threat to the lives and safety of millions of residents living downstream. With a massive structure and a catchment area of 624 square kilometers, the potential for disaster is frightening.
Mullaperiyar Dam was constructed in 1895, and its life expectancy has long expired. The region is prone to seismic activity, which heightens the risk of a catastrophe. In recent years, the frequency of tremors has increased. The dam, located in a seismically active zone, should have been decommissioned to assure public safety. The safety measures in place are inadequate for a structure of its age and significance.
Each monsoon season, which brings heavy rains, sees the dam brimming beyond capacity, further stressing its structure. The irrigation systems reliant on its water are severely impacted by this over-reliance on an aged and vulnerable infrastructure. Engineering studies have repeatedly noted its weakening structural integrity, and managing authorities have warned that a breach could lead to catastrophic flooding akin to or worse than the floods experienced in recent years, with the potential to affect multitudes of communities.
The Kerala government along with the Centre must prioritize the construction of a new, safe dam. Presently, there are technological and engineering capabilities that can ensure a modern, robust solution. This would involve a comprehensive investigation, in-depth studies, and the dedication of necessary resources to ensure that human lives aren't placed at risk due to outdated infrastructure.
We call upon decision-makers to urgently reassess the condition of the Mullaperiyar Dam and take necessary steps for its decommissioning and replacement. It is our responsibility to act now, to prevent an impending disaster. The safety of Kerala's people rests in the balance, and we must not wait for a tragedy to spur action.
Please join me in signing this petition to demand immediate action for the decommissioning and modern replacement of Mullaperiyar Dam, ensuring the safety and livelihood of the Kerala people.
5
The Issue
As a human being, the safety of life is our most fundamental requirement. Mullaperiyar Dam has long been a looming danger for the people of Kerala. Built during the British era, this 126-year-old gravity dam poses a significant threat to the lives and safety of millions of residents living downstream. With a massive structure and a catchment area of 624 square kilometers, the potential for disaster is frightening.
Mullaperiyar Dam was constructed in 1895, and its life expectancy has long expired. The region is prone to seismic activity, which heightens the risk of a catastrophe. In recent years, the frequency of tremors has increased. The dam, located in a seismically active zone, should have been decommissioned to assure public safety. The safety measures in place are inadequate for a structure of its age and significance.
Each monsoon season, which brings heavy rains, sees the dam brimming beyond capacity, further stressing its structure. The irrigation systems reliant on its water are severely impacted by this over-reliance on an aged and vulnerable infrastructure. Engineering studies have repeatedly noted its weakening structural integrity, and managing authorities have warned that a breach could lead to catastrophic flooding akin to or worse than the floods experienced in recent years, with the potential to affect multitudes of communities.
The Kerala government along with the Centre must prioritize the construction of a new, safe dam. Presently, there are technological and engineering capabilities that can ensure a modern, robust solution. This would involve a comprehensive investigation, in-depth studies, and the dedication of necessary resources to ensure that human lives aren't placed at risk due to outdated infrastructure.
We call upon decision-makers to urgently reassess the condition of the Mullaperiyar Dam and take necessary steps for its decommissioning and replacement. It is our responsibility to act now, to prevent an impending disaster. The safety of Kerala's people rests in the balance, and we must not wait for a tragedy to spur action.
Please join me in signing this petition to demand immediate action for the decommissioning and modern replacement of Mullaperiyar Dam, ensuring the safety and livelihood of the Kerala people.
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Petition created on September 4, 2026