Mon May 19 22:30:00 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Supreme Court Facilitates Resolution of Mullaperiyar Dam Dispute Between Tamil Nadu and Kerala**

**NEW DELHI, May 20, 2025** – The Supreme Court issued key directives on Monday, May 19, 2025, aimed at fostering a resolution to the long-standing dispute between Tamil Nadu and Kerala over the 125-year-old Mullaperiyar dam. The court, led by Justice Surya Kant, addressed critical issues including tree removal, transportation of repair materials, and grouting of the dam’s superstructure.

The court ordered Kerala to forward Tamil Nadu’s application for tree cutting to the Ministry of Environment and Forests within two weeks, with the Centre instructed to grant sanction within three weeks, pending appropriate conditions. Acknowledging Kerala’s agreement to the transport of materials for six of nine proposed repair projects, the court found “no justification” to prohibit the transportation of materials for the remaining three. An Executive Engineer from the Kerala government will be permitted to observe the repair work carried out by Tamil Nadu.

Regarding Kerala’s environmental concerns about the road repair accessing the dam, the Supreme Court directed the state to undertake the repair using eco-friendly materials, with a Tamil Nadu civil engineer monitoring the progress.

Furthermore, the court mandated that Tamil Nadu complete the dormitory repairs and comply with relevant regulations under the Inland Vessels Act and Wildlife Act for an additional boat. On the crucial matter of grouting the dam, the court instructed both states to consult with the Supervisory Committee, which will provide expert recommendations.

In a previous hearing, the Supreme Court emphasized that resolving the inter-state dispute required expert intervention. Justice Dipankar Datta stated, “Our interest is the safety and security of the dams,” highlighting the necessity of specialized knowledge in addressing the complex issues surrounding the Mullaperiyar dam.

The Supreme Court’s directives mark a significant step towards a collaborative resolution of the Mullaperiyar dam dispute, paving the way for improved safety and maintenance of the vital infrastructure.

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