Is the Maharashtra Government's Objection to Increasing the Almatti Dam Height Justified?
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Synopsis
Karnataka's Minister M.B. Patil defends the height increase of the Almatti Dam against Maharashtra's objections, citing past tribunal rulings and emphasizing political motives behind the concerns. This ongoing water-sharing dispute raises questions about regional water management and political agendas.
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra's objections to Almatti Dam height rise are politically motivated.
- Past tribunal and Supreme Court rulings support Karnataka's plans.
- Historical floods in Sangli predate the dam's construction.
- Raising the dam height could enhance water storage capacity.
- Collaboration between states is crucial for equitable water management.
Bengaluru, Aug 1 (NationPress) Karnataka's Minister for Large and Medium Industries, M.B. Patil, asserted on Friday that the objections raised by the Maharashtra government regarding the proposed increase in the height of the Almatti Dam, which has raised concerns about flooding in Sangli and Kolhapur, are unfounded.
This issue has gained attention following a letter from Maharashtra's Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, directed to the Centre, articulating objections to the dam height increase.
During a media briefing here on Friday, Minister Patil emphasized that this claim has previously been dismissed by various tribunals, the Supreme Court, and even within Parliament.
"Historically, Sangli faced catastrophic floods in the years 1964, 1976, 1994, and 1997, prior to the dam's construction. The Supreme Court had ruled in 2000 that we have the approval to elevate the dam's height to 524.256 meters. Even though Maharashtra approached the tribunal in 2005, its interim petition was also turned down," he explained.
Minister Patil noted that the tribunal did not support the argument that the Almatti Dam contributes to flooding in Maharashtra's districts of Sangli and Kolhapur.
"The tribunal released comprehensive reports in 2010 and 2013 on this issue and evaluated the effects of the Hippargi reservoir. Furthermore, no state has challenged the verdict of the second tribunal formed to allocate Krishna River water," Patil stated.
"It is evident that the sudden objection is politically motivated," he remarked.
He also mentioned that even Andhra Pradesh (prior to its bifurcation) had raised similar concerns, citing a lack of water supply if the Almatti Dam's height was increased, but this was also dismissed.
He accused Maharashtra's current request for a reassessment of the dam's height as being politically motivated.
"Having served as Irrigation Minister for five years, I possess in-depth knowledge on this subject," he added.
"There is significant encroachment in the catchment areas of Sangli district. I have a report on this matter. The Maharashtra government should prioritize addressing this issue rather than hindering our plans. I will share these documents with Water Resources Minister D.K. Shivakumar. We will provide a detailed response to this situation," Patil asserted decisively.
In response to the issue in Bengaluru, Home Minister Parameshwara stated: "Safeguarding the interests of our state is paramount. By raising the Almatti Dam's height, we will be able to store the water allocated to our state. Currently, we lack adequate reservoirs to retain our allocated share. If we increase the height, we can store additional TMCs of water. We will urge the Centre and other states to ensure the prudent use of our state’s allocated water share."
Point of View
The ongoing dispute over the Almatti Dam height reflects larger issues of inter-state water management and political maneuvering. Both states must prioritize collaborative solutions to ensure equitable water distribution and address environmental concerns.
NationPress
09/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Almatti Dam controversy about?
The Almatti Dam controversy centers around Karnataka's proposal to increase the dam's height, which Maharashtra opposes, citing potential flooding risks.
What has Karnataka's Minister M.B. Patil said about the objections?
Minister Patil claims that Maharashtra's objections are baseless and politically motivated, emphasizing past tribunal dismissals of similar arguments.
What historical floods occurred in Sangli?
Sangli experienced significant flooding in 1964, 1976, 1994, and 1997, prior to the construction of the Almatti Dam.
How has the Supreme Court ruled on the dam's height?
The Supreme Court ruled in 2000 that Karnataka is permitted to raise the Almatti Dam's height to 524.256 meters.
What are the implications of raising the dam's height?
Raising the dam's height may allow Karnataka to store more water, addressing current reservoir shortages and ensuring better water management.
