Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, who arrived in Salem on Tuesday, took a roadshow in an open van near Mecheri, waving to the people gathered along the route.
Vijay arrived at Salem airport from Chennai by flight and was received by officials and party functionaries. He then proceeded by road from Kamalapuram towards Mettur for the programme to open water from the Mettur Dam for Cauvery delta irrigation.
People and party workers gathered on both sides of the roads to welcome him. Several people showered flowers as the Chief Minister passed through the area.
Near Mecheri, Vijay stood in an open van and travelled along the road, waving to the crowds. People responded with cheers and enthusiasm.
Water from the Mettur Dam is scheduled to be released on Tuesday for Cauvery delta irrigation. The release has been delayed this year due to inadequate water availability, as the customary date for the annual release is June 12.
According to the information provided, this will be the 62nd occasion in the 93-year history of the Mettur Dam that water has been released late for irrigation.
More than 3,800 police personnel have been deployed for security arrangements during the programme.
