The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) and the Water Resources Department have assured that Kerala’s water and electricity supply will not be affected by the temporary closure of the Idukki Moolamattom hydroelectric power station.

The plant has been shut for a month from Wednesday to carry out urgent maintenance work. Officials said the repairs are essential but will not impact daily power or water needs across the state.

Maintenance work on worn-out valve seals

According to KSEB, the main inlet valve that supplies water to the fifth and sixth generators needs seal replacements due to ageing. The fourth generator, which shares the same water pipe, has also been included in the shutdown.

The work will fix leaks and improve efficiency. Normally, one generator undergoes maintenance every month between July and December. However, as multiple units were found with damage, three generators will now be repaired together.

Political concerns delay shutdown

The scheduled shutdown early Tuesday morning was delayed after Water Resources Minister Roshy Augustine and several MLAs from Ernakulam objected, warning of possible water shortages.

A meeting was held between the Power and Water Resources Ministers and senior officials to review the issue.

KSEB maintained recent rainfall has improved reservoir levels and ruled out any threat of power cuts. Officials added that delaying the shutdown further could be risky, as the valve leak needs immediate attention.

While KSEB stressed the urgency of the repair, Water Resources Minister Augustine asked for more time to go about with the repairs, saying water shortage concerns extend beyond Ernakulam to other districts.

KSEB officials warned that delaying the shutdown further could be risky because of a major leak in the valve.

Following discussions, both departments clarified that water and power supplies would remain stable during the shutdown. The Water Resources Department said an alternative system would ensure uninterrupted water flow to nearby areas.