Will the Maha Govt Stand Firm Against Almatti Dam Height Increase?
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Synopsis
The Maharashtra government firmly opposes the Karnataka government's proposal to raise the Almatti Dam height, citing concerns over flooding in nearby districts. Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil emphasizes the importance of water management and safety for residents, urging reevaluation of the plans. This ongoing dispute highlights the complexities of inter-state water resource management.
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra opposes the Almatti Dam height increase.
- Concerns about flooding in Kolhapur and Sangli.
- Water management policies are being formulated.
- National Institute of Hydrology to assess impacts.
- Inter-state dialogue is essential for resolution.
Mumbai, July 4 (NationPress) The stance of the Maharashtra government regarding the proposal to elevate the height of the Almatti Dam is unequivocal. The government will vehemently oppose any such initiative from the Karnataka government, affirmed Water Resources Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil during the Question Hour in the Legislative Council on Friday, responding to a query from Bhai Jagtap (Congress).
Highlighting the significance of water discharge and its management, Minister Vikhe Patil stated that relevant policy measures are being formulated.
He emphasized that considerations regarding the amount of water discharge for daily usage and flood prevention are also being evaluated.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has conveyed through a letter to the Chief Minister of Karnataka to refrain from raising the Almatti Dam's height, as mentioned in the state council.
Vikhe Patil reiterated that the state government has consistently opposed Karnataka's plans to elevate the Almatti Dam.
The government has requested a report from the National Institute of Hydrology in Roorkee, which will provide an objective assessment of the potential impacts arising from the proposed dam height increase.
In his recent correspondence to the Karnataka CM, CM Fadnavis expressed his concerns that Sangli and Kolhapur districts in Maharashtra could experience flooding if the dam's height were raised, urging a reevaluation of the proposal.
CM Fadnavis has urged Karnataka to reconsider the plan to elevate Almatti Dam's height from the current level of 519.6 metres to the full reservoir level (FRL) of 524.256 metres to safeguard residents from potential floods in Kolhapur and Sangli districts.
Conversely, Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah, in a letter to Maharashtra CM Fadnavis, defended Karnataka's decision to increase the height of the Lal Bahadur Shastri reservoir on the Krishna at Almatti, asserting that Karnataka possesses the right to elevate the dam's height without waiting for the Union government to publish the Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal award.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the critical nature of water resource management between states. The ongoing opposition from Maharashtra against the Almatti Dam height increase underscores the need for collaborative dialogue. Maintaining a balance between development and safety is essential for a harmonious resolution to this dispute. Upholding the interests of all stakeholders must guide the path forward.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Maharashtra government's position on the Almatti Dam height increase?
The Maharashtra government opposes the Karnataka government's proposal to raise the Almatti Dam height, citing concerns over potential flooding in nearby regions.
Who is the Water Resources Minister of Maharashtra?
The Water Resources Minister of Maharashtra is Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil.
What are the concerns related to the Almatti Dam height increase?
Concerns include increased water discharge leading to possible flooding in Sangli and Kolhapur districts in Maharashtra.
What has Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis communicated regarding the dam?
CM Devendra Fadnavis has urged Karnataka to reconsider the plan to increase the dam's height to protect local residents from flooding.
What assessment has the Maharashtra government requested?
The Maharashtra government has sought a report from the National Institute of Hydrology for an unbiased assessment of the potential impacts of the proposed dam height increase.
