The Southern Districts Farmers' Association has appealed to the state government to desilt all eight minor dams in Virudhunagar, citing El Niño’s adverse impact. They warn that water‑holding capacity has dropped by 40% and rainwater is now draining uselessly into the sea.

  • Water‑holding capacity of all eight minor dams has fallen by 40%.
  • The government must start desilting work on a war‑footing before the monsoon.
  • Excavated soil can be distributed to farmers free of charge.

The Southern Districts Farmers' Association has appealed to the state government to desilt all eight minor dams in Virudhunagar district, considering the adverse effects of El Niño. Spokesperson R. Ram Pandian said the dams have not been desilted for years, resulting in a 40% loss of storage capacity.

Current condition of the dams

Pilavakkal Periyar and Kovilar dams were built in 1950, while Vembakottai dam dates back to 1960. Kudimaramathu (maintenance) work was carried out in 2019‑20, but no desilting took place. Consequently, topsoil accumulation has risen from two to four feet. The other five dams – Golwarpatti, Anaikuttam, Kullursandhai, Irrukkangudi and Sasthakoil – have never been desilted since construction.

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Why This Matters

Because El Niño is expected to suppress normal southwest‑monsoon rainfall, restoring the dams’ storage capacity is critical. Desilting will capture even the limited rain, safeguarding irrigation for local farmers.

This is a critical issue; the government must act swiftly to protect farmers’ water security.
Did You Know?: Five of Virudhunagar’s eight minor dams have never undergone desilting since they were built in the 1950s‑60s.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why is desilting of the dams necessary?
  • What benefits will desilting bring to the farmers?