Funds needed for Radhapuram check-dam repairs

Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker M. Appavu has asked Chief Minister M.K. Stalin for money to repair two important check-dams. These check-dams, located in the Western Ghats, feed water to 55 irrigation tanks in the Radhapuram area. In a petition submitted on Monday, Appavu highlighted the need for repair due to severe damage from floods in 2021. The Alanthuraiyar check-dam, built by former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi in Kanjippaarai, is crucial for channeling water. Eight tanks receive water directly from it, and 47 tanks depend on its tributary, the Hanumanadhi River. Appavu suggested that the height of the Alanthuraiyar check-dam should be increased by two feet to prevent future damage. He also recommended deepening and widening the channel that connects to the Sooravali check-dam to manage water flow better. In 2023, the Water Resources Organisation had promised ₹35 crore for the dam's reconstruction, but the funds were not allocated. Appavu stressed that if the funds are added to the 2025-2026 Budget, it could significantly help agriculture and provide water to the local population. Officials mentioned that a project report seeking ₹30 crore for the damages was submitted earlier, but funding was denied. There is hope that this year, at least ₹40 crore will be approved for urgent repairs to both check-dams. Additional funds are also being requested for repairs to other nearby check-dams.