KOCHI: A team of scientists from Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI), Thrissur, has started the preliminary studies for the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) at the proposed site for the new dam at Mullaperiyar. The six-member team, led by T V Sajeev, which arrived at the area earmarked for the construction of the dam two days ago, has been carrying out an EIA of the region. Other scientists in the team are K K Ramachandran, Swarupanandan, P Vijayakumar, Sreekumar and Amruth. “The team will look into various possible environmental impacts in the region in connection with the construction of the new dam. The area, which will submerge with the construction of the new dam, will be studied in detail by the scientists,” the officials said. The proposed site is around 614 metres below the existing dam. ROV tests The Central team of scientists from Central Soil and Materials Research Stations (CSMRS) has begun the ROV tests at Mullaperiyar dam. It is learnt that the tests have revealed presence of rocky substances at some parts of the dam. The team includes Alex Varghese, Brinda Pratap and assistant Shivcharan. Mullaperiyar Cell member M Sasidharan is also present. State Irrigation Department executive engineer George Daniel and Tamil Nadu’s Kaveri Cell deputy chief engineer Ramachandran were also present at the spot. “The tests are being carried out by dividing the entire length of 1,200 ft into small segments of 10 ft each. Of the total 121 segments, only 15 have been completed”, sources said.
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