Cauvery Water Row: Karnataka Ordered to Release 3,000 Cusecs Daily
The CWRC has directed Karnataka to release 3,000 cusecs of water daily for 15 days, despite the state's claims of drought and low reservoir levels.
In a significant development in the long-standing Cauvery water dispute, the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) has directed Karnataka to release water from its reservoirs to ensure a daily flow of 3,000 cusecs at Biligundlu in Tamil Nadu. This mandate is set for a duration of 15 days, beginning November 7.
The decision, which has also been ratified by the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA), comes after a heated exchange of arguments between the two states during the 146th meeting of the CWRC held on November 6.
Karnataka's Plea: Drought and Dwindling Reserves
During the proceedings, Karnataka presented a stark picture of its current water crisis. The state government highlighted that the inflow into the four major reservoirs within the Cauvery basin has plummeted by 53.88% when compared to the 30-year average.
The gravity of the situation was further emphasized by the state's claim that out of 56 taluks in the basin, a staggering 55 are currently drought-hit. Karnataka's legal team and representatives argued that the state had already fulfilled its obligations, noting that from June 1 to November 6, 54.964 TMC of water had flowed at Biligundlu. This exceeds the prescribed 49.119 TMC by 2.28 TMC.
Furthermore, the state argued that of the estimated 57 TMC of water available, approximately 50 TMC is essential for priority needs until July 2027, leaving only 7 TMC—an amount they claim is insufficient even for existing crops.
Tamil Nadu's Demand: Saving the Samba Crop
On the other side of the table, Tamil Nadu pressed for additional water to support its Samba crop. The state alleged a shortfall of 16.895 TMC in its share as of November 4. Tamil Nadu officials complained that between October 24 and November 4, the flow frequently dropped below the 3,000 cusecs previously directed by the CWRC.
Tamil Nadu requested the committee to direct Karnataka to release the balance water immediately, seeking a total of 20.678 TMC at Biligundlu between November 5 and November 21.
The Final Verdict and Its Impact
Despite Karnataka's arguments regarding downstream storage in Mettur, Bhavani, and Amaravati reservoirs—and the assertion that the Samba crop's needs could be met via rain and groundwater—the CWRC ruled in favor of a continued release.
The committee decided that Karnataka must ensure a daily flow of 3,000 cusecs at Biligundlu starting 8 am on November 7 for the next 15 days. This will result in a total release of approximately 3.88 TMC of water.
Pressure on Karnataka
This directive has placed immense pressure on the Karnataka government, given the prevailing drought conditions and the need to preserve water for the upcoming summer. N Cheluvarayaswamy, the Minister for Major Irrigation and Mandya District In-charge, confirmed the approval of the directive by the CWMA.
"The government will take necessary steps to protect Karnataka's interests, keeping in mind the state's water availability and priority needs," stated Minister Cheluvarayaswamy in a press release.