Mullaperiyar Dam Guide
Engineering Marvel or Environmental Concern: The Mullaperiyar Dam Guide
The Mullaperiyar Dam is a gravity dam on the Periyar River in Kerala, India. While not typically a tourist attraction in the conventional sense, it holds significant historical and engineering interest, and its location amidst the scenic landscapes of Thekkady makes it a point of interest for some visitors. However, access to the dam itself is restricted due to security concerns and ongoing debates about its safety. The dam was constructed between 1887 and 1895 by John Pennycuick, a British engineer, to divert water from the Periyar River to the arid regions of Tamil Nadu. This allowed for irrigation and agricultural development in the then-Madras Presidency. The dam has been a source of contention between Kerala and Tamil Nadu for decades, primarily due to concerns about its structural integrity and the potential impact on downstream areas in Kerala in the event of a failure. While direct access to the dam is limited, you can often view it from vantage points within the Periyar National Park or from certain viewpoints along the road leading to Thekkady. The surrounding area offers opportunities for wildlife spotting, trekking, and boating in the Periyar Lake. Understanding the history and the ongoing debates surrounding the dam adds a layer of complexity to the natural beauty of the region.
Transportation
Reaching the vicinity of Mullaperiyar Dam involves traveling to Thekkady. From Kumily (Thekkady), you can hire a jeep or taxi to explore the surrounding areas. However, direct access to the dam itself is restricted. Buses are available from major cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu to Kumily. Some buses from Kochi to Kumily include stops at Vandiperiyar.