The Stanley Reservoir, more commonly known as the Mettur Dam, will open its sluice gates on June 12 for the third year in a row to provide irrigation to the Cauvery delta region in Tamil Nadu. The water release was kicked off by Chief Minister MK Stalin, who showered flower petals to mark the occasion. The water from the dam will benefit approximately 17.37 lakh acres of agricultural land across 12 districts in the region.
The opening of the dam’s gates is a perfect opportunity for Tamil Nadu’s farmers, who suffered greatly from the recent lockdown. For three years, the Mettur Dam has opened on June 12 as per schedule for the benefit of those living in the Cauvery delta.
Before opening the gates, Stalin inspected the desilting work in the region to ensure that the released water would reach all of the tailend areas for the benefit of farmers.
The Mettur Dam, built on the River Kaveri, is located in the Salem District in Tamil Nadu. When the dam is operational, it can store up to 93.5 tmcft of water. It is one of the best hydroelectric power plants in Tamil Nadu, with an installed capacity of 885 MW.
Farmers in the region were overjoyed by the timely opening of the dam’s gates. They have been waiting for the release of water for their crops, which have been suffering from the recent drought.
The Tamil Nadu government is committed to ensuring adequate water for farmers, regardless of the situation. The opening of the Mettur Dam’s gates is one of the most significant events in this commitment.
