Mathagu (Sluices)

MATHAGU (SLUICES)

A Mathagu is constructed like a madai. But, its door can be opened and closed as required. This can increase or decrease the amount of water coming out. Mathagu is usually made of wood or stone. These can be opened or closed manually.

The following proof suggests that sluices were used and stored to protect the overflowing water during the Sangam period.

Proof: [Parithira 2]

1. Structure and Mode of Operation of Mathagu

Structure (Technology)

A sluice is a scientifically constructed system. A sluice is generally a structure made of wooden planks or stones. Now, this is done with aluminium or iron.

Sluice is situated between the two hard banks of the lakes or in the middle of the banks of the pond. It is rectangular in shape made of wooden planks closely modelled against water seepage. This rectangular wooden door is mounted on the end of a screw- shaped system. The wooden door can be raised and lowered with the help of this screw. The sluice is mounted on the edge of the bank. Sluice is atleast 200-300 feet away from Kumizhithoombu.

Mode of operation

When the water from the sluice is allowed through the drain to the irrigation, the sluice valve is opened sufficiently by turning the screw once enough water has passed, the screw is turned and closed. Hence, the flow of water can be increased or decreased whenever needed.

To mark the location of the sluice, stone halls were erected.

2. Intelligence of Sangam People about Mathagu

Many parts of Tamil Nadu receive rain for only two months a year due to the northeast monsoon. With that, we have to deal with the water requirement for the whole year. Realizing this well, Sangam people used their knowledge to create thousands of lakes / ponds and collected and fully utilized the rainwater of those two months. They invented sluices and culverts and installed them in lakes/ponds to use the collected water economically.

Tamils excelled in irrigation water management. Even 1000 years ago, dams were built to give the people of the area the benefit of water.

The Chola King Rajaraja Cholan cut the Uyyakondan Canal on the Cauvery from Mayanur, supplying water to 1000 lakes along the way. Parantaka Cholan cut the Viranam lake to save Cauvery water from wastage.