Karnataka Government Seeks Clarity on Mekedatu Project from Central Government
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Synopsis
The Karnataka government is urging the Union government for clarity on the controversial Mekedatu project, which is vital for both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar emphasized the need for a timely decision on the project's approval.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka government demands clarity on Mekedatu project.
- Deputy Chief Minister emphasizes timely decision-making.
- Concerns over water utilization and reservoir levels addressed.
- Potential negotiations with Andhra Pradesh for water projects.
- Union government urged to expedite notifications for water projects.
Bengaluru, Feb 26 (NationPress) The Karnataka government has demanded that the Union government provide clarity regarding its position on the execution of the Mekedatu project. This project is a significant initiative from the Congress-led administration and faces opposition from Tamil Nadu.
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who also heads the Water Resources Department, addressed reporters, stating, “We have requested the Union Government to clarify its viewpoint on the Mekedatu project. There should be no further delays in decision-making. It's crucial for us to know if the project will be sanctioned or not. The Union Ministry of Jal Shakti is in a position to ensure fairness, and we have urged them to clarify their stance. This project should benefit both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.”
He added that concerning the Pennar River matter, there exists a dispute between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, and the government inquired whether it could be resolved through negotiation.
“Last year, 300 TMC of water was lost to the sea, and the year before that, it was 400 TMC. We must utilize this water effectively,” he remarked.
When asked about reservoir water levels as summer approaches in Karnataka, he assured, “There is no cause for concern regarding drinking water. For agricultural use, we are implementing necessary controls.”
On the Navali Dam Project discussions with Andhra Pradesh, Shivakumar noted: “With silt accumulation in the Tungabhadra dam, around 30 TMC of water is being wasted. Hence, there is a plan to construct a parallel dam near Navali. We held a separate meeting with ministers and officials from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, and we have also brought this to the attention of the Union Minister. The Union Minister suggested that we hold discussions and reach a consensus, assuring that if both states agree, there will be no objections.”
Shivakumar further mentioned, “I contacted Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and requested a meeting in the first week of March. Our technical advisory committee has proposed an alternative approach, but we cannot disclose it publicly until discussions are held with both states.”
“There have been several past proposals for desilting, but the question remains: where should the 24-30 TMC of extracted silt be disposed of? The technical committee has provided recommendations after analyzing costs. Andhra Pradesh CM has given us time for a meeting in early March. Once the date is confirmed, I, along with our entire team, will visit Andhra Pradesh,” he explained.
“The Union government has yet to issue a gazette notification regarding the Krishna Upper Basin Project and the Alamatti Dam. We have urged them to expedite the notification so that we can utilize our share of water. We have already commenced canal construction and other related activities. The Chief Minister has decided to complete the land acquisition process in a single phase to prevent rising costs,” he stated.
“For the Kalasa-Banduri project, forest department approval is still pending. Previously, the Chief Minister and I met with the Prime Minister and submitted a proposal. The Prime Minister had directed the Union Minister of Jal Shakti to make a decision on this matter. Therefore, we are pressing the Union government. In the meantime, we have also discussed this with Union Minister Prahlad Joshi, who has assured that he will take it up with the Ministry of Environment and Forests,” he said.
Regarding opposition to river interlinking projects, he mentioned, “Let anyone oppose it. For us, the interests of our state and farmers are paramount. While implementing government projects, cutting trees is unavoidable, but for every tree removed, we will plant four new trees.”
When asked about the specific TMC of water requested under the river interlinking projects, he replied, “Discussions are still in the preliminary stage. Let’s await the technical committee’s report.”
“Concerning river interlinking projects, we have submitted multiple proposals to the Union Government, advocating for Karnataka’s share of water. A technical committee has been appointed to assess the replacement of dam gates and implement safety measures. Additionally, an advanced technology-based project has been planned to ensure water reaches the tail-end areas of canals. We have sought time for another meeting with the Union Minister before March 18. Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti V. Somanna has provided his insights, and we have engaged in discussions for the benefit of our state,” he said.
“We have submitted a proposal to the Union Minister of Jal Shakti regarding various irrigation projects in the state, totaling Rs 11,000 crore, along with a request for clarity on the Union Government's position on the Mekedatu project,” Shivakumar reiterated.
