Wed Apr 09 13:21:42 UTC 2025: ## Ponnaniar Dam Opened After 12 Years to Save Crops

**Tiruchi, April 9, 2025** – The Ponnaniar dam, located in the foothills between Perumalmalai and Semmalai, was opened for irrigation on Wednesday after a 12-year hiatus, Collector M. Pradeepkumar announced. The decision was made in response to persistent farmer demands to protect standing crops in the Kadavur and Manapparai areas.

While the Water Resources Department typically opens the dam only when the water level exceeds 40 feet, it was opened at 36.50 feet (out of a maximum 51 feet) due to the urgent need. The dam, last opened in 2012, irrigates a total of 2,101 acres, including 1,830 acres of older ayacut. In addition to saving crops, the released water is expected to replenish groundwater levels.

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