Mon Oct 13 07:09:12 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Supreme Court Addresses Safety Concerns Over Mullaperiyar Dam; Seeks Expert Review**

**New Delhi – October 13, 2025** – The Supreme Court of India today issued notices to the central government, the governments of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) regarding a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning the Mullaperiyar dam. The petition, filed by the Save Kerala Brigade, seeks the construction of a new dam to replace the existing 130-year-old structure, citing serious safety and structural stability concerns.

A bench headed by Chief Justice B.R. Gavai acknowledged the concerns and suggested the need for potential reinforcement of the existing dam. More significantly, the CJI proposed that the matter be thoroughly examined by an expert body to assess the safety aspects of the dam and to evaluate the feasibility of constructing a new one.

The Mullaperiyar dam, constructed in 1895 across the Periyar River in Kerala’s Idukki district, has been a long-standing point of contention between Kerala and Tamil Nadu. While Tamil Nadu operates the dam under a lease agreement and relies on it for irrigation and drinking water in its southern districts, Kerala has repeatedly raised concerns about its age, seismic vulnerability, and the potential danger it poses to millions living downstream.

Senior Advocate V. Giri, representing the petitioner, argued that the aging dam presents a grave threat to the lives and property of nearly 10 million people residing in Kerala. He implored the Court to direct the construction of a new dam to ensure the safety and well-being of the population.

The PIL names the Centre, the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, and the NDMA as respondents. The court’s decision to seek expert review marks a significant step in addressing the complex and sensitive issue of the Mullaperiyar dam. The outcome will have far-reaching implications for both states and the safety of millions of people.

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