The work of plugging holes in the Mullaiperiyar dam came to a halt on Thursday as officials ran out of stock of cement. Last week, the TN Public Works Department commenced the work of plugging the holes drilled in the Mullaiperiyar dam from where samples of the lime surkhi-mortar were taken for testing by experts. This was done to test the stability of the dam by the SC-appointed empowered panel. After initial objections, Kerala officials relented and permitted the plugging work at the dam.
However, a cement-laden lorry that was bound for the dam repair was reportedly stopped by the forest officials of the Kerala government, citing possible damage to the environment. However, PWD officials continued the plugging work with the available stock. With two holes, out of nine drilled, remaining to be closed, the plugging work came to a halt on Thursday for want of cement. “We need another 360 bags to plug the remaining two holes,” said a PWD official.