CM Stalin Launches ₹40 Cr Kallanai Canal Widening; Releases Water for Delta Irrigation

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has announced a ₹40 crore project to widen the historic Kallanai (Grand Anicut) Canal between Eachankottai and Vettikadu to enhance irrigation in the Cauvery delta. The move aims to boost water flow efficiency and agricultural productivity in one of the state’s key farming belts.

Stalin made the announcement on Monday while also revealing that the Uyyakondan Extension Canal in Budalur will be renovated at a cost of ₹15 crore. Additionally, he confirmed the completion of the Thiruvaiyaru Bypass and announced a ₹20 crore bus stand project in Pattukottai. A ₹53 crore milk processing unit, new SIPCOT industrial estates, and procurement centres are also in the pipeline to support rural development.

The announcements followed a symbolic ceremony on Sunday, where the Chief Minister released water from the Kallanai dam for irrigation. The water, discharged earlier from the Stanley Reservoir in Mettur, will now flow through the Cauvery, Vennar, and Grand Anicut Canal to irrigate the delta region. Stalin performed the ritual by showering flower petals and paddy seeds as he opened the shutters at around 6 p.m.

As per the Public Works Department, 1,500 cusecs each will be released into the Cauvery and Vennar, 500 cusecs into the Grand Anicut Canal, and 400 cusecs into the Kollidam River. The release is likely to irrigate up to 13 lakh acres. The discharge pattern will change over storage at Mettur, rainfalls, and Karnataka water inflows.

Desilting work on 5,021 km of rivers, canals, and drainage channels has already been undertaken this year in 13 districts at a cost of ₹98 crore. Officials were asked by Stalin to ensure water supply to tail-end areas.

Subsequently, the Chief Minister conducted a roadshow in Thanjavur and had a statue of late CM M. Karunanidhi dedicated at the Old Bus Stand, which attracted large masses and party workers. Senior ministers, MPs, and MLAs attended the functions.