New Delhi: The Supreme Court has directed the Central Government to take a decision within four weeks on Tamil Nadu’s application to fell trees for strengthening the Baby Dam at Mullaperiyar. The directive was issued by a bench headed by Justice Suryakant.

The Court also instructed Tamil Nadu to conduct a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) study before proceeding with grouting work on the dam, as recommended by the Supervisory Committee.

Tamil Nadu seeks Forest Department’s clearance

Tamil Nadu has argued that cutting down 23 trees is essential for reinforcing the structure of the Baby Dam. While the Supreme Court had previously instructed the Kerala government to grant permission for this, Senior Advocates Jaideep Gupta and G. Prakash, representing Kerala, informed the Court that such permission has now been provided.

However, Senior Advocate Shekhar Naphade, appearing for Tamil Nadu, contended that permission from the Kerala government alone is insufficient. He clarified that what is required is specific authorisation from the Forest Department. In response, Kerala’s counsel argued that government approval should be considered as encompassing all departmental permissions.

According to Central Government sources, Kerala has not granted permission to cut down all 23 trees requested by Tamil Nadu, but only those deemed necessary for the dam’s reinforcement.

Grouting work and road repair timeline

The Supervisory Committee had earlier approved grouting work at the Mullaperiyar Dam. However, the Supreme Court made it clear that this work should only proceed after Tamil Nadu completes the mandated ROV study. The Court noted that these activities could be concluded within a month.

In addition, the Court directed that the Vallakadavu–Mullaperiyar ghat road, which is to be reconstructed by Kerala, should be taken up only after the monsoon. Tamil Nadu will bear the cost of the reconstruction.