WB project to raise water level in Kerala Dams

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: To enhance the level of water in the dams under the Irrigation Department and Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB), a World Bank-aided rehabilitation project will be implemented during this financial year.  Irrigation Design and Research Board (IDRB) has been entrusted with the  task and a preliminary study has been conducted.     IDRB is awaiting clearance from the Union Government for starting the works.   Sources in the IDRB said that a study would also be conducted to find out if there was need for any change in the spillways.  The rehabilitation plan  includes installation of new instruments at the dams. “A preliminary study has been conducted at Malampuzha Dam and it was found that there was no need for any changes in the spillway. Similar studies will be conducted in all 31 dams in the state,’’ sources said.The World Bank has already approved funds for the project to be implemented in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Orissa and Madhya Pradesh.The project is expected to be completed in four years.  The rehabilitation project will help increase the capacity of the dams  presently used for irrigation purpose and power generation. Digital  monitoring of dams and modern technology management will also be  introduced.   The dams to be included in the modernisation programme include Siruvani, Kanjirapuzha, Chimoni, Kuttiyadi, Malampuzha, Moolathara,  Pothundi, Neyyar, Vazhani, Peechi, Periyar, Pampa, Chulliyar, Meenkara,  Walayar, Pazhassi, Kallada, Chitupuzha and Moovattupuzha under the  Irrigation Department and Idukki, Sabarigiri, Idamalayar, Pallivasal,  Sengulam, Panniyar, Neryamangalam, Poringalkuthu, Sholayar, Kuttiyadi, Lower Periyar and Kakkad dams under the KSEB. There will not be any study and rehabilitation project at Mullaperiyar.    The Dam Rehabilitation and Improved Project of the Central Water Commission will prevent those dams operating under unsafe conditions owing to the present safety issues. There will also be a rainfall monitoring station to check the inflow of water. It was found that there is a need for strengthening the canal system to ensure minimum water loss.  The powergeneration can also be increased with the completion of the project.