Dry Sathaiyar dam is now bed of anti-social activities

The Sathaiyar dam, located 30 km north of the Temple City, has gone completely dry and the soil on its bed has also developed cracks. However, this situation has worked out to the advantage of tipplers and anti-socials. The river bed is now strewn with liquor bottles, empty water sachets and covers of snack packets.

Subbiah Pandian, a farmer from Meenatchipuram village, claimed that once the area was completely green and fertile when the dam was to its full capacity. But, absence of rains has not only turned the dam dry but has also become an ideal spot for nefarious activities. 

The worry of farmers is that when the monsoon sets in the dam will fill up but the water will be polluted with broken glass pieces and plastic waste. This poses a threat to the life of animals and people. “We cannot stop the activities. We look up to the heavens for a solution as only rain can fill up the dam and drive away the antisocial elements,” said Subbiah. 

The full capacity of Sathaiyar dam is 56 mcft which serves an ayacut of 1,500 hectares. The dam is fed by the Sathaiyar river that originates from Sirumalai and confluences with the Vaigai. The dam caters to the irrigation needs of Irampatti, Keelachinnampatti, Sukkampatti, Alagapurai, Kovilpatti and Meenatchipuram. 

The forest area near the Sathaiyar dam is home to a large number of monkeys. As the forest is also facing drought, animals suffer without food and water. However, some good Samaritans have taken it upon themselves to give them a helping hand. They are feeding the monkeys roaming around the dam area. 

Panneerselvam, involved in manufacture of Nannari Sarbath in Palamedu, said the drought has forced the animals to come to roads in search of food and water putting their lives at risk. To quench their thirst, he has placed two pots near the dam area, which he fills every day. Similarly, Ayyadurai, a trader from Thethur village, feeds the monkeys with bananas. “On hearing my vehicle horn, the monkeys assemble on the road to collect the fruits,” he added.