Lifting the silt from the Vaigai dam would be a long-drawn process and it would be executed in phases, said Tamil Nadu Minister for Law and Energy C. T. R. Nirmalkumar in Theni on Saturday (June 13, 2026).

Speaking to media persons after inspecting the reservoir, he said that the dam’s maximum storage level stood at 71 feet and it is likely that around 15ft may be filled with silt. The government has given its nod for lifting it, but the process would be implemented in a phased manner. Asked about when the works would commence, he said that after technocrats’ response, they would go ahead. “It is going to take nine years to completely clear the silt from the reservoir,” Mr. Nirmalkumar said. He added that the farmers’ interests would not be compromised under any circumstances.

From the time the dam was constructed by the former Chief Minister K. Kamaraj about 70 years ago, the silt had never been removed. The farmers have been fighting with the governments in this regard, but there has been no tangible response. Representatives of farmers’ associations who were present said that when the water level was low, the operation to remove the silt should begin. With the Southwest monsoon turning active, there is more scope for rainfall, which would lead to further delays, they apprehended.

Later, at a meeting held at the Theni Collectorate, the Minister told the officials from multiple departments to work for the welfare of the common man. Each department had a crucial role. There were complaints, like water theft, in the Chinnamanoor block. Likewise, border issues persisted in the district. The farmers too had problems with the Forest Department. Thus, in the larger public interest, every official shall be responsible, he added.

District Collector R. Vaithinathan presided over the meeting. Officials from various departments, including SP Sneha Priya, MP Thanga Tamil Selvan, MLAs Jagannath Misra and K. Sabari Ayngaran and others, participated. The Minister gave away welfare assistance to 229 beneficiaries, including 50 women SHGs, totalling ₹6.25 crore on the occasion.