Mettur Dam remains closed; Cauvery delta farmers face Kuruvai cultivation uncertainty in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu’s crucial Kuruvai cultivation season has entered a period of uncertainty as the Mettur Dam remains closed due to inadequate water storage. Traditionally opened on June 12 every year, the dam supplies water essential for short-term paddy cultivation across the Cauvery Delta region, including Thanjavur, Tiruvarur and Nagapattinam districts.

Farmers had already completed land preparation and nursery activities, anticipating timely water release. However, continued volume delay has left thousands concerned about crop planning and seasonal productivity.

Last year, favourable monsoon rains and timely water release supported cultivation across more than one lakh acres in the delta region.

Adding to the challenge are reports of fertiliser shortages and difficulties in securing crop loans.

To ease the impact, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay announced a Rs 134.83 crore Kuruvai special package while the government monitors water levels at the Mettur dam.