Tribunal Award does not protects Kerala's interest: Minister

Thiruvananthapuram, Mar 7 (UNI) Kerala Water Resources Minister N K Premachandran today informed the Assembly that the Cauvery Tribunal's final award did not meet the state's interests, as it had not provided due share of water to the state.

In a written reply he said the state had been awarded just 30 tmcft water by the Tribunal as against its contribution of 147 tmc ft to the Cauvery system. The state's contention before the Tribunal was that it deserved 98 tmcft.

The Tribunal verdict would effect the execution of Bhavani and Mananthavadi irrigation projects as it would not get required water because of the diversion of Cauvery waters to other river basins.

In another written reply he said a sum of Rs 28,25,316, including Rs 23,70,820 as fees to counsel, had been spent for dealing with the Mullaperiyar Water Dispute Case and other related expenses.

Mr Premachandran said the permanent solution to the issue was a new dam in place of the century-old dam, which would not only help Tamil Nadu to get water but ensure the safety of the people in Kerala as well.

UNI