Chennai, Nov 17 (NationPress) Farmers’ groups in Tamil Nadu have categorically rejected Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s recent assertion that the Mekedatu dam project will not impact their state's share of Cauvery water. They contend that Karnataka has consistently failed to adhere to the monthly water releases stipulated by the Supreme Court and have called on Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to advocate for a daily water release strategy to protect the state’s agricultural needs.

The apprehensions intensified after the Supreme Court dismissed Tamil Nadu’s plea against the Mekedatu project. Following this decision, Shivakumar reiterated that the dam would not hinder the water flow to Tamil Nadu, stating that Karnataka plans to proceed with the construction.

He also claimed that the proposed balancing reservoir would provide water during times of scarcity.

However, farmers in Tamil Nadu perceive the situation differently. They highlight that the state has been struggling to receive even the minimum monthly quota set by the Supreme Court.

As the agricultural season unfolds, farmers argue that the ongoing pattern of inconsistent and delayed releases from Karnataka severely disrupts crop planning and jeopardizes the livelihoods of thousands of families reliant on Cauvery irrigation.

According to farmers’ associations, Tamil Nadu should receive 9.19 TMC of water for June and 31.24 TMC for July as per the Supreme Court’s orders. Yet, the actual flow during these months has been significantly lower than the required levels.

Farmers assert that this persistent shortfall reflects Karnataka’s reluctance to fulfill its commitments, raising doubts about the assurances related to the Mekedatu project. They are advocating for the Tamil Nadu government to adopt a more assertive stance, urging the neighboring state to comply strictly with the Court’s directives.

The consensus among farmers’ groups is that monthly release schedules have proven ineffective, and only a systematic daily allocation can guarantee consistent water availability for irrigation. They emphasize that Karnataka has a history of releasing water only when its reservoirs are full during monsoon seasons, leaving Tamil Nadu exposed during dry periods.

As Samba cultivation progresses across the delta, farmers caution that any further delay or reduction in water supply could result in considerable agricultural losses. In light of this, they have urged Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to engage in strong, sustained negotiations with Karnataka to secure uninterrupted daily releases of Cauvery water and avert a worsening crisis in Tamil Nadu's irrigated farmlands.