Why in news?
Heavy rainfall over north‑eastern Tamil Nadu in mid‑November caused several lakes in the Palar River’s catchment to overflow. The state’s water‑resources department released water from a check dam and issued a flood warning, urging people not to bathe in or cross the river. This alert drew attention to the river’s hydrological importance and the risks posed by sudden inflows.
Background
The Palar is a long east‑flowing river of southern India. It rises in the Nandi Hills of Karnataka and flows for roughly 350 kilometres through three states—about 93 kilometres in Karnataka, 33 kilometres in Andhra Pradesh and 222 kilometres in Tamil Nadu—before emptying into the Bay of Bengal near Vayalur. In parts of its upper course the river sinks below ground, emerging again downstream. Towns such as Vellore, Arcot and Kanchipuram stand on its banks, and its main tributary is the Cheyyar River. The Palar has long been a source of drinking water and irrigation, but excessive sand mining and over‑extraction have left stretches dry during much of the year.
Recent developments
- Overflowing reservoirs: Continuous rainfall filled three lakes feeding the Palar near Kanchipuram. Authorities opened sluice gates to prevent breaches, increasing the river’s flow through nearby villages.
- Public advisory: Officials cautioned residents against entering the swollen river, warning that strong currents could sweep people away. Local media reported that at least one person was swept away earlier in the week while attempting to cross.
- Flood management: The water‑resources department monitored water levels and coordinated with district administrations to evacuate low‑lying areas if necessary. Fishermen were advised not to venture out, and travellers were urged to use bridges instead of fording the river.
Significance
- Hydrological health: The incident highlights the Palar’s dual character—normally dry, yet prone to flash floods after heavy rain. It underscores the need to restore water‑holding capacity in the catchment through desilting and forest conservation.
- River‑basin cooperation: With the river flowing through multiple states, coordinated management is essential. Sharing real‑time data on rainfall, reservoir levels and water releases can improve flood preparedness and ensure equitable use.
- Public awareness: Educating residents about river safety, especially during the monsoon, can save lives. Avoiding encroachments in floodplains reduces property damage when rivers overflow.
Conclusion
The Palar River flood warning serves as a reminder that even seemingly placid rivers can pose dangers during the rainy season. Long‑term river‑basin management, early warnings and public cooperation will help minimise risks while preserving this historic river for drinking water, irrigation and ecological functions.
Source: The Times of India · Wikipedia