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Consider visiting the Lower Meenmutty Hydel Project located at Palode in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala, if you seek an opportunity to appreciate nature and gain knowledge on renewable energy. This hydroelectric power plant uses the Kallar River’s water to produce electricity and also serves as a hydel tourism center with numerous activities and sights to explore for guests.
What is the Lower Meenmutty Hydel Project?
The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) initiated the Lower Meenmutty Hydel Project with the purpose of harnessing the hydroelectric potential of the Kallar River in the Vamanapuram basin. The scheme comprises a concrete gravity weir, redirecting the river’s water to a powerhouse where two turbines generate 3.5 megawatts of electricity. This small-scale hydroelectric project was completed in 2005 and is among the few similar initiatives in Kerala.
The Lower Meenmutty waterfall, situated close to the Lower Meenmutty Dam, lends its name to the project. The waterfall is a popular tourist destination, with locals and tourists frequently visiting. In the local language, Malayalam, Meenmutty translates to “where fish are blocked.” The Lower Meenmutty Hydel Project yields numerous benefits for both the environment and society. A few of them include:
- Production of clean and sustainable energy, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on non-renewable sources.
- Regulation of water flow in the Kallar River, contributing to flood and drought prevention.
- Provision of irrigation water for agriculture and drinking water for adjacent communities.
- Creation of employment opportunities for locals employed within the project or in related sectors.
- Promotion of hydel and eco-tourism, contributing to the economy and raising awareness of the region.
Things to Do at Lower Meenmutty Hydel Project Tourism Centre
The Lower Meenmutty Hydel Tourism Centre is an establishment created by KSEB to exhibit the project and provide leisure activities for guests. The center, situated amidst hills and forests, sits on the banks of the Vamanapuram River and boasts numerous amenities and attractions, including:
- Boating: Pedal boats and slow-speed boats are available for rent, providing visitors with the chance to navigate the river and observe the artificial waterfall created by the weir’s water release.
- Garden: The lovely garden, complete with a range of plants and flowers, offers a pleasant environment to relax, take pictures, or enjoy a picnic.
- Snack and ice cream parlor: Visitors can indulge in some snacks and ice cream at the parlor situated near the garden.
- Amusement zone: Children and adults alike can have fun at the amusement zone, which features swings, slides, seesaws, and other play equipment.
- Information center: The information center, equipped with displays and models, provides guests with additional knowledge about the project and its features.
Plan Your Visit to Lower Meenmutty Hydel Project Tourism Centre
The Lower Meenmutty Hydel Tourism Centre is located in Palode, roughly 35 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram city. Visitors can reach the center either by road or by rail. Nedumangad is the closest town, which has excellent connectivity through buses and taxis. Private cabs or taxis can be hired from Trivandrum Central, the nearest railway station, to reach the center.
The center is open every day from 10 AM to 6 PM except for Mondays. The admission fee is INR 20 per person and INR 20 per vehicle. Pedal boats cost INR 50 per person, while slow-speed boats cost INR 100 per person.
Note that the center may occasionally be closed for maintenance purposes; as a result, it is recommended that you contact KSEB before planning your visit.
