The main problem that Kerala faces with the water level in the >Mullaperiyar dam touching 142 feet, is the way it will now threaten precious wildlife (Dec.5). There doesn’t seem to be anyone concerned about this. Will the Centre and Tamil Nadu take appropriate measures to save wildlife without their habitat being affected? The Kerala Chief Minister is on record as saying that a rise in water levels is causing large-scale destruction to wildlife and the rich biomass in the Periyar Tiger Reserve. It is changing the contours of the reservoir, which is also affecting tourism as wildlife is now withdrawing into the interior forests. The Chief Conservator of Forests has submitted a report. An expert committee has also said an increase in the water level will affect the grasslands of the Periyar ecosystem, which in turn could endanger the food chain of the tiger.
Sarin S. Rajan,
Chengannur, Kerala
