Union Minister Questions Accountability Over Mullaperiyar Dam Safety

Union Minister Suresh Gopi raised concerns about the safety of the 125-year-old Mullaperiyar Dam. He questioned who would be responsible if the dam collapses—courts or authorities. Amidst mounting fears following the Wayanad landslide, Gopi urged for accountability, highlighting Kerala’s call for a new dam.

Union Minister Suresh Gopi on Sunday expressed serious concerns about the safety of the 125-year-old Mullaperiyar Dam, questioning who would be held responsible if the dam were to collapse.

Gopi posed this question while speaking at a function, pointing out that it is crucial to determine whether the courts that maintain the status quo or the authorities who seek judicial verdicts would be accountable in such a disaster.

The minister, who also handles the portfolio of petroleum and natural gas as well as tourism, mentioned he was prompted by a Facebook post that voiced similar concerns about the dam's safety.

Gopi vividly described the looming question of a possible dam collapse as an ''idimuzhakkam'' (thunderclap) in his heart and sought answers from those responsible. He emphasized that Kerala cannot endure another disaster, especially after the recent Wayanad landslide tragedy raised public fears of a potential catastrophe involving the dam.

Despite Tamil Nadu’s assurance that the dam is “absolutely safe,” Kerala continues to demand the construction of a new dam near the existing structure to ensure safety.