An irrigation and hydroelectric power production system built around the Mettur Dam and the Stanley Reservoir. The irrigation system supplies water and controls irrigation works ( Grand Anaikat and Vadavar canals of the Thanjavur District.

The major Dam ( 5,300' long, 176' high) of the state, across the Kaveri. It was built between the hills of Seetha Malai and Palamalai during the late 1929s. The water in its reservoir ( 5,46,000 cubic feet) is primarily intended for irrigation. A portion of its is let down for generating electricity.