Thiruvananthapuram: The onset of intense monsoon showers across Kerala has pushed the state’s water management infrastructure into active mode, with two major dams Malampuzha in Palakkad and Banasura Sagar in Wayanad being opened due to surging water levels. Simultaneously, the Mullaperiyar Dam, situated on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, has reached a critical threshold of 135 feet, prompting authorities to issue widespread alerts, especially in low-lying and coastal areas.
With incessant rainfall swelling reservoirs across the Western Ghats, the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) and Irrigation Department jointly initiated a controlled release of water from the Malampuzha and Banasura Sagar dams on Thursday evening. Malampuzha Dam, which plays a crucial role in Palakkad’s irrigation and water supply system, had its shutters lifted to manage overflow and ensure dam safety. Likewise, Banasura Sagar, Asia’s second-largest earth dam, began releasing water into tributaries of the Kabini River.
Authorities have issued precautionary notices to villages situated along the Kalpathipuzha and Bharathapuzha rivers, as well as regions downstream of the Kabini basin. Residents have been advised to avoid venturing into swollen rivers and to remain alert to emergency instructions.
In an even more concerning development, the Mullaperiyar Dam operated by Tamil Nadu has reached 135 feet, only a foot below its permissible upper limit of 136 feet. If the water level crosses this threshold, the Tamil Nadu government will be required to begin releasing water through the spillway shutters. As per protocol, the state has already informed Kerala authorities and Idukki District Administration to prepare for the possibility of water discharge.
With the Mullaperiyar reservoir continuing to receive heavy inflows from upstream rains, the situation is being closely monitored by both Kerala and Tamil Nadu’s water resource departments. The dam, a long-standing flashpoint in inter-state water disputes, sits in a seismically sensitive region, making real-time communication and caution all the more vital.
Kerala’s Disaster Management Authority has issued a red alert for regions surrounding the Periyar River, including parts of Idukki, Ernakulam, Kottayam, and Alappuzha. Many of these areas are vulnerable to flash floods and waterlogging, especially in the event of simultaneous releases from multiple dams. Authorities have warned that even a moderate release from Mullaperiyar, in combination with local rainfall, could trigger downstream inundation.
The District Collectors of Ernakulam, Thrissur, Pathanamthitta, and Wayanad have activated emergency control rooms, and local self-government bodies have been instructed to ready relief camps and rescue measures. Warnings have also been extended to fishermen and residents of coastal belts to remain cautious of high tide and possible backwater overflow.
As Kerala stands on the edge of a critical water management challenge, the opening of the Malampuzha and Banasura Sagar dams, and the alarming rise in the Mullaperiyar reservoir, highlight the fragile balance between monsoon blessings and disaster risks. Coordinated efforts by dam authorities, local administrations, and citizens will be vital in navigating the coming days safely. The focus now remains on swift communication, community readiness, and cautious optimism.