Tamil Nadu Minister for Adidravidar Welfare A Tamilarasi today formally opened the gates of the Vaigai dam to release water for irrigation in Madurai, Dindigul and Theni districts.
Madurai district collector C. Kamaraj, who was present, said water was being released following demand from farmers who made direct representation to Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertlisers M. K. Alagiri.
He said 1800 cusecs would be released from today, benefitting a litte over 1.50 lakh acres. He advised farmers to go in for short term crops and use water judiciously.
The level in Periyar dam stood at 118.70 feet against its maximum level of 136 feet. with an inflow of 3,502 cusecs. The discharge from Periyar dam was 1,025 cusecs.
The Vaigai dam level stood at 63.75 feet compared to the full level of 71 feet, with an inflow of 1,181cusecs.
