‘Long-buried truths of Mullaperiyar dam’: New book questions deals, delays and silence

A new Malayalam book titled Mullaperiyar Dam 999 + 999 – Facts unspoken and need to be known claims to shed light on lesser-known aspects of the Mullaperiyar dam dispute. Written by C.P. Roy, former chairman of the Mullaperiyar Samara Samithi, the book was released in Kerala on Thursday.

The first copy was handed over to activists of the Samara Samithi by Geevarghese Mar Koorilos, Metropolitan of the Niranam Diocese. Civic Chandran, editor of Paathabhedam, introduced the book during the launch.

Raises questions about historic and renewed agreements

The book explores critical issues surrounding the controversial 1886 agreement that gave Tamil Nadu access to the Mullaperiyar dam, originally signed under colonial compulsion. It examines why Kerala still supplies water through the Mullaperiyar and eight other dams and why the State remains hesitant to renew expired dam agreements.

It also raises questions about the 1970 agreement signed during the tenure of Chief Minister C. Achutha Menon, which effectively renewed the 999-year lease for another similar term. The author argues that the details and implications of this extension remain largely unknown to the public.

Supreme Court verdict left unaddressed

The book highlights the continued inaction on the 2014 Supreme Court verdict, which laid down safety guidelines for the ageing dam. Despite the court’s directive, both Kerala and Tamil Nadu have failed to fully implement the ruling, leaving downstream residents in a vulnerable position.

Calls for transparency in water-sharing

Through his writing, Roy claims to offer insights into why certain decisions were made in the past and how they continue to affect present-day relations between Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The book urges a more transparent, fair, and well-informed public discussion around the dam and inter-state water-sharing.