What happened: Tamil Nadu’s allegation of obstruction in Mullaperiyar implementation
Tamil Nadu told the Supreme Court that Kerala is taking an “obstructionist” approach that has prevented implementation of a Supreme Court order in the Mullaperiyar dam dispute. Tamil Nadu’s position links Supreme Court permission for reservoir operation with completion of safety strengthening measures and with permissions required for related on-site work.
Background and earlier position: May 7, 2014 Constitution Bench ruling
The Supreme Court Constitution Bench ruling dated May 7, 2014 declared the Mullaperiyar dam structurally safe. The ruling permitted Tamil Nadu to raise the reservoir water level from 136 feet to 142 feet, and follow-up strengthening measures were expected to be completed after the increased level.
Tamil Nadu stated that Kerala has not cooperated with timely completion of safety works required for the dam. Tamil Nadu cited strengthening-related works such as strengthening connected to the “baby dam,” work on earth dam components, and grout-related work on the main dam. Tamil Nadu also sought permission to fell trees near the dam site to facilitate long-pending strengthening work.