The devastating tragedy that struck Wayanad during the inky darkness of midnight of 30th July 2024, claimed the lives of hundreds, obliterating three villages beneath a deluge of heavy stones and mud. As the aftermath of the catastrophic landslides in Wayanad continues to unfold, the death toll and extent of the destruction are still being reported, with survivors sharing their harrowing experiences. 

As per reports  heavy rains triggered the collapse of hillsides, resulting in torrents of mud, water, and boulders cascading down onto the area. With at least 405 deaths reported, over 273 injuries, and 206 reported missing, the landslides marked one of the deadliest natural disasters in Kerala's history.

Meanwhile, social media is rife with concerns regarding the 128-year-old Mullaperiyar Dam in Idukki, which many fear is on the brink of collapse, described by some as “nearing obsolescence.” Situated in a seismically active region, the dam poses a grave threat to approximately 3.5 million residents. Should it fail, more than 100,000 individuals living between the dam and the Idukki reservoir, located 40 kilometers downstream, would be at risk. Additionally, the impact would extend to over 4 million people residing along the lower Periyar, Azhutha, Meenachilar, Pamba, and Manimalayar rivers, spanning five districts. The consequences would be catastrophic, resulting in not only the loss of countless lives—both human and animal—but also the destruction of homes, businesses, and agricultural lands, culminating in total losses amounting to billions of rupees, an amount beyond the compensatory capacity of the Kerala State or the nation. 

The dam’s age is alarming; it is the most antiquated of its kind globally. Unlike other contemporary dams that have either been dismantled or decommissioned, the Mullaperiyar Dam was constructed using Lime Surky concrete, a material six times less durable than the modern M30 concrete. Much of this lime has already eroded, leading to visible leaks on both the surface and within the dam's gallery. Investigations by the Legislative Sub Committee have identified leakage between the 10th and 11th blocks, with the seepage increasing alarmingly. Critical structural damage has been detected in the masonry between the 95th and 106th feet from the dam's base. Numerous potholes, crevices, and wide gaps mar the dam’s surface, and the masonry cover on the upstream side has experienced significant compression along the entire length of the affected area. 

Given the extent of the damage and deterioration, temporary repairs will not suffice to avert a total collapse. Furthermore, no technology currently exists to effectively reinforce an aging dam in such a state of decline; ironically, previous strengthening efforts have only exacerbated its vulnerabilities. In light of these facts, the report relied upon by the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India regarding the Mullaperiyar Dam appears to be flawed, unscientific, and lacking in validity. It is crucial to recognize that the perilous situation extends beyond Kerala, threatening the residents of five districts in Tamil Nadu as well. The potential ramifications of a dam failure are unimaginable, and the prospect of constructing a new dam under current legislation is virtually impossible. The laws governing dam construction have evolved to be more stringent than those in place during the Mullaperiyar Dam's construction, leaving the people of Tamil Nadu in a far worse predicament than before the dam was built. 

We cannot wait any further for any thing to happen , and then commence any restoration. Authorities, please do not postpone or ignore the fact that Mullaperiyar Dam and surroundings are a mega Water Bomb, and can bring unexpected tragedy at any time. It is not the time to accuse each other, or to submit false reports. It is the best time to start the real construction of a stronger dam, as a wartime urgency. No doubt, the cost would be nominal, when compared to the huge expenditure that may occur if a tragedy hits the region. 

In light of these grave concerns, I earnestly implore the Hon'ble Prime Minister, and the Chief Ministers of Kerala and Tamilnadu to intervene urgently and rectify this legacy of British colonial policy by facilitating a collaborative effort between the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu to construct a new dam immediately. Such an initiative would not only safeguard the lives of the people of Kerala but also ensure a reliable water supply for our neighbors in Tamil Nadu.

Let all prominent organizations including all mainstream media, Pravasi Associations like Fokana, Fomma, Global Indian Council, World Malayali Council etc., move petitions to the concerned authorities, at the earliest.GIC Cabinet and all it’s members around the world expressed  great concern and that the organization requests the Hon.Prime minister of India and the Chief Ministers of Kerala  and Tamil Nadu to take an immediate political decision to decommission the existing  Mullaperiyar dam and construct a replacing one and that the Indian diaspora will definitely fund a portion of the expenses!

Let us not lament later for our own negligence, Wayanad Tragedy is the last warning to the sleeping white elephants, uplifting the truth behind the principle of democracy - the government is for the people!Let us not lament later for our own negligence, Wayanad Tragedy is the last warning to the sleeping white elephants, uplifting the truth behind the principle of democracy - the government is for the people!

 Dr.Mathew Joys