D.K. Shivakumar Engages in Dialogue on Pennar River Dispute and Upper Bhadra Project with Union Jal Shakti MoS
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New Delhi, Jan 7 (NationPress) The Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka and Irrigation Minister, D.K. Shivakumar, had an important meeting on Tuesday with Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti V. Somanna to address funding for the Upper Bhadra project and to discuss Tamil Nadu's objections regarding the proposed dam in the Pennar river basin.
After the meeting, Shivakumar informed reporters, saying: "There are indications that the previously promised allocation of Rs 5,300 crore for the Upper Bhadra project might be reduced. However, we lack detailed information on this matter. We have been assured that the funds will eventually be disbursed."
He continued, "Tamil Nadu submitted an affidavit on January 2 concerning the water sharing of the Pennar river. Our own affidavit, which was supposed to be submitted within three weeks, has been delayed due to the winter session. We have requested an extension, and a date is expected to be set for discussions between representatives of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The Supreme Court has advised both states to address the matter through dialogue," he added.
Shivakumar emphasized that the proposed dam on the Markendeya River, a tributary of the Pennar River, would not pose any detriment to the state of Tamil Nadu. "They are aware of the water shortages in the Kolar district of Karnataka. The central government has acknowledged our efforts to supply treated water to Kolar from Vrushabhavathi and K.C. Valley," he stated.
"Opting for legal measures would be a lengthy and costly process, so we are looking to resolve this issue through discussions between the two state governments. The Forest Department has indicated its willingness to provide the necessary approval. I attempted to meet with Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, who represents our state, to discuss these irrigation projects, but he was unavailable. I have briefed Union Minister of State Somanna on the state's irrigation initiatives," he noted.
When asked if the Mekedatu project was a topic of discussion, he replied: 'I cannot share any details regarding that.'
On the topic of his party's promise of Rs 2,500 per month under the 'Pyari Didi' scheme in Delhi compared to Rs 2,000 in Karnataka, he remarked, "The cost of living varies between the two states."
Regarding Home Minister Parameshwara's call for a meeting to address the trend of political dinner meetings, he explained, "I was traveling overseas, so I do not have any updates on that matter."
In response to allegations made by Union Minister and JD-S leader H.D. Kumaraswamy regarding a 60 percent commission by the Congress government, Shivakumar said, "We will discuss what is contained in Kumaraswamy's safe at a later time."
