Sub: Urgent Need for the Decommissioning of Mullaperiyar Dam for Public Safety and Environmental Protection

Sir,

We, the undersigned, are writing to express our deep concerns regarding the continued operation of the Mullaperiyar Dam, which poses significant risks to public safety, environmental sustainability, and the well-being of communities in the region. Constructed over a century ago, the dam has exceeded its intended lifespan and now presents serious structural and safety issues that must be addressed immediately.

Reasons for Decommissioning the Mullaperiyar Dam:

Aging Infrastructure: The Mullaperiyar Dam was constructed in 1895, and despite numerous maintenance efforts, its age poses a significant risk of structural failure. The dam's materials and construction methods are outdated, and modern safety standards are far more stringent.
Seismic Activity: The dam is situated in a seismically active region. Given its age and current condition, there are heightened concerns about its ability to withstand potential earthquakes. A dam failure triggered by seismic activity would have catastrophic consequences for downstream communities.
Environmental Impact: The reservoir and associated activities have had adverse effects on the local ecosystem. Decommissioning the dam would allow for the restoration of natural river flow, benefiting the environment and local biodiversity.
Public Safety: The safety of the millions of people living downstream of the Mullaperiyar Dam is paramount. The potential for a catastrophic failure poses an unacceptable risk to lives, homes, and livelihoods.
Proposed Actions:

Comprehensive Safety Assessment: Conduct an immediate and thorough safety assessment of the Mullaperiyar Dam by an independent panel of experts to evaluate the current risks and potential mitigation measures.
Development of a Decommissioning Plan: Initiate the development of a detailed plan for the safe decommissioning of the dam, including the management of water resources, sediment, and other environmental considerations.
Stakeholder Engagement: Ensure transparent and inclusive engagement with all stakeholders, including local communities, environmental groups, and government agencies, to address concerns and develop a consensus-driven approach to decommissioning.
Investment in Alternative Water Management Solutions: Invest in modern, sustainable water management solutions to replace the functions currently served by the Mullaperiyar Dam, ensuring that water needs are met without compromising safety.
We believe that taking these actions will protect public safety, preserve the environment, and demonstrate a commitment to proactive, responsible governance. The decommissioning of the Mullaperiyar Dam is a necessary step to ensure the long-term well-being of our communities and ecosystems.

We, the undersigned, urge you to prioritize this issue and take immediate action to decommission the Mullaperiyar Dam.

Sincerely,

Sreeshna C
Dinsree house, Pallikkunnu, Kannur-670004
sreeshnamadhumal@gmail.com
7994946919

Signatures:

Sreedhil C, Pallikkunnu, Kannur, 06/08/2024
Gagan G Nath, Eranakulam,  06/08/2024
Balagopal Reddy, Chitoor, Andrapradesh, 06/08/2024

Sreekanth, MG Road, Bangalore, 06/08/2024

Vinod N, Sarjapur, Bangalore, 06/08/2024

Dharmendrakumara, HAL, Bangalore, 06/08/2024

Rithish S M, Jayanagar, Bangalore, 06/08/2024

Sheela R N, Marathahalli, Bangalore, 06/08/2024

Sulochana, Marathahalli, Bangalore, 06/08/2024

LakshmiN, Marathahalli, Bangalore, 06/08/2024

Purushotham L, Chinnappanahalli, Bangalore, 06/08/2024

Dinendran C, Kannur, Kerala, 06/08/2024

Madhusree K, kannur, Kerala, 06/08/2024

Shashikala MV, HAL, Bangalore, 06/08/2024

Christy J, HAL, Bangalore, 06/08/2024

Sooraj KK, Muttanur, Kannur, Kerala, 06/08/2024