DMK MP Salma Advocates for ₹83 Lakh Cauvery Lift Irrigation Project in Trichy
DMK Rajya Sabha MP Salma has formally approached the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti, urging the allocation of ₹83 lakh for a critical lift irrigation initiative. The project aims to harness surplus water from the Cauvery River and channel it to the Ponnaniyar dam located near Manapparai in the Trichy district. This strategic move is designed to address pressing drinking water and irrigation requirements in the region.
Addressing Water Scarcity Through Infrastructure Development
Highlighting a significant decline in water inflow at the Ponnaniyar dam over recent years, MP Salma emphasized that the proposed diversion of surplus Cauvery water would yield substantial benefits for local farmers and the rural populace. The urgency of this project is underscored by the dam's operational history; it was opened in April 2025 after a prolonged hiatus of 13 years, primarily due to insufficient inflow.
Farmers have been vocal in their demands, persistently urging the state government to implement a lift irrigation system that would redirect surplus Cauvery water to both the Ponnaniyar dam and the Kannuthu tank. In response, the Water Resources Department (WRD) has completed a comprehensive Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the initiative.
Project Details and Estimated Benefits
The DPR outlines a project cost of ₹83 lakh and forecasts significant agricultural and environmental advantages. It is projected to irrigate approximately 2,384 acres of land, thereby boosting agricultural productivity. Additionally, the project is expected to play a crucial role in recharging the rural groundwater table, enhancing water security for the community.
Based on the findings of this report, MP Salma recently met with Union Minister C R Patil in New Delhi to formally request funding for the project. The proposed infrastructure involves diverting Cauvery water from Mayanur in Karur to the Ponnaniyar dam, covering a distance of 52 kilometers.
Broader Development Initiatives for Manapparai
In parallel efforts to foster regional development, MP Salma has engaged with other Union ministers to advocate for additional infrastructure and skill development projects in Manapparai. She met with Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to request that the Tirupati–Rameswaram Express and Tiruchendur–Chennai Superfast Express trains make scheduled stops at Manapparai railway station in both directions, improving connectivity for residents.
Furthermore, Salma placed a demand with Union Skill Development Minister Jayant Chaudhary for the establishment of a skill development centre in Manapparai. This centre would operate under the Skill India Mission or the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), aiming to equip local youth with industry-relevant skills and significantly enhance their employability prospects.
These concerted efforts by MP Salma highlight a multifaceted approach to addressing water scarcity, improving transportation links, and boosting economic opportunities in the Trichy region, with the lift irrigation project standing as a cornerstone initiative for sustainable water management and agricultural growth.
