Chennai, 20 August (H.S.):Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan on Thursday renewed the State's demand for a new Mullaperiyar dam, offering to fund the project while assuring Tamil Nadu that its water entitlement would be protected.

Addressing the 31st Southern Zonal Council meeting in Mahabalipuram, Satheesan said Tamil Nadu could decide the design and location of the proposed dam and supervise its construction. He reiterated Kerala's position of water for Tamil Nadu, safety for Kerala.

The proposal comes amid fresh differences over the 131-year-old dam, located in Kerala's Idukki district but operated by Tamil Nadu. The reservoir supplies water to agricultural regions in Theni, Madurai, Dindigul, Sivaganga and Ramanathapuram districts.

Tamil Nadu revived the dispute in its August 5 Budget, announcing that it would pursue an increase in the reservoir's water level. The Supreme Court had permitted the State to raise the level to 142 feet in 2014.

Kerala has opposed any further increase, citing the dam's age and risks to downstream communities. The State wants the existing structure decommissioned and replaced, while Tamil Nadu maintains that it is safe. Differences also persist over a pending safety audit and the composition of the committee tasked with evaluating the dam.

Satheesan also sought regional support for Mission Samudra, Kerala's plan to build a maritime economic hub around Vizhinjam, and demanded withdrawal of recent amendments to the Mines and Minerals Act.

He urged the Centre to implement one-third reservation for women in Parliament without increasing its strength. Highlighting healthcare funding disparities, he said Kerala spent ₹1,493 crore on Ayushman Bharat-KASP last year but received only ₹151 crore from the National Health Authority.

The Chief Minister also sought toll relief for KSRTC, support for the Thalassery-Mysore and Nilambur-Nanjangud railway projects, and Central assistance to combat coastal erosion.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired the council meeting.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman