Even as both Vaigai and Periyar dams have sufficient storage, release of water from Periyar dam is not possible in the first week of June. The Public Works Engineers hope that water can be released after June 10 or 12. Engineers have undertaken various repair works at water release point near Periyar dam with an aim of withdrawing maximum quantity of water from the dam. Filters were being replaced at the exit point to prevent flow of weeds and organic wastes. It will take at least one week to complete the work, sources in PWD added.
At present, the dam has 119.5 foot of water with an inflow of 208 cusecs, thanks to sizable rain fall in the dam site last night. Rainfall recorded in Periyar dam was 14 mm. Discharge from the dam was nil.
Storage level in Vaigai dam was 59.10 feet. Storage was 2,546 mcft. With no inflow into the dam, discharge was 60 cusecs only.
Despite delay in releasing water from Periyar dam, farmers in the valley have started preparing the fields to raise the first crop in the double cropping area, thanks to early commencement of southwest monsoon. Land preparation was on in full swing in many parts such as Uthampalayam, Goodalur and Cumbum. Intermittent showers in various parts of the valley tempted the farmers to do preparatory work. Usually, the Public Works Department releases the water on June 1.
