Kudankulam unsafe but aging Mullaperiyar dam safe for TN!

New Delhi, Dec 2: With the Mullaperiyar issue causing heartburns for both Kerala and Tamil Nadu, a literal war of words have erupted from both sides. There are others within political circles who are determined to make an issue out of this with vested interests. With Kerala CM Oommen Chandy meeting PM Manmohan Singh to help resolve the issue, the matter is only getting murkier by the day.

Tamil Nadu CM Jayalalithaa in her letter to the PM slammed Kerala's stance that the dam was in danger and stated that Kerala was creating a fear psychosis among the people on the safety of the dam. She said that the Supreme Court's order to increase the water level should be abided. With MPs from both states protesting in front of the Parliament, the issue is still flaring full throttle.

Speaking to a popular television channel, CM Chandy said, "The safety of the people is our primary concern. The continuous earthquake (the Mullaperiyar dam is subject to) - that is the main concern which is bothering Kerala."

Expressing their intent for discussion with Tamil Nadu, Chandy made an interesting observation and said, "When Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa is concerned with the people residing near the proposed Kudankulam Nuclear power plant, this is because of her concern for the people residing in the vicinity of the plant. We are also concerned for the safety of people in Kerala."

Chandy added, "We are ready to give as much water to Tamil Nadu as needed. Our approach is very clear. We have to take care of people's safety. We are ready for open discussion."

Kerala Revenue Minister Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan also commented on the burning issue and stated, "If Tamil Nadu has any apprehension over the operation of a new dam... we are willing to leave such matters and rest of other things to a third party – whether it is Supreme Court or a political establishment like the prime minister. Let us construct a new dam.''

He added, "We are willing to refer all matters to a third party. We have only one demand. Let us build a new dam. Don't let millions of people live in panic. We want to continue our friendly relations and brotherhood with Tamil Nadu. We don't want a confrontation between Tamil Nadu and Kerala. We want to settle the issue amicably."

OneIndia News