Tamil Nadu delegation should visit and inspect Mekedatu project site: Karnataka CM DK Shivakumar
Karnataka CM DK Shivakumar invites a Tamil Nadu delegation to inspect the Mekedatu project site, clarifying water will be used only for drinking.
Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has extended an invitation to the Tamil Nadu government to send a delegation to inspect the Mekedatu project site. Speaking at a press conference in New Delhi, the Chief Minister emphasized that the purpose of the project is clear and should be verified firsthand by the neighboring state.
Clarification on Water Usage
Addressing concerns regarding water sharing, Shivakumar stated that the Union Minister has recognized that the water from the Mekedatu project is intended strictly for drinking purposes. He clarified that the water cannot be diverted for irrigation, a point he believes is crucial for resolving the ongoing dispute.
"The Union Minister has understood that water from the Mekedatu project will be used strictly for drinking purposes and cannot be used for irrigation. The Tamil Nadu government should also send a delegation to inspect the project site," Shivakumar remarked.
He further assured that Karnataka would extend full cooperation to any officials sent from Tamil Nadu. He also mentioned plans to request the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister to participate in a formal meeting regarding the project.
Addressing Environmental and Land Concerns
Regarding the re-submission of the Detailed Project Report (DPR), the Chief Minister provided updates on the logistical challenges of the reservoir:
- Forest Land: Alternative land has been identified to compensate for the forest areas that will be submerged under the project.
- Water Scarcity: He noted that current tensions are high as people compete over 5,000 cusecs of water, particularly in the Kabini region where farmers are protesting due to low water levels in the KRS reservoir.
- Central Oversight: A central team has already visited the site to assess these complex factors.
Discussions with the Union Government
During his visit to New Delhi, Shivakumar met with Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil to discuss several critical water disputes, including the Krishna and Mekedatu projects. The Chief Minister sought central intervention and support for Karnataka's irrigation initiatives.
Key outcomes from the meeting included:
- Mahadayi and Forest Issues: The Centre has assured a joint meeting to address these matters.
- Upper Krishna Project: A promise was made to resolve issues by convening a meeting involving the Chief Ministers of the neighboring states.
- Upper Bhadra Project: Shivakumar raised concerns over the delay in fund releases. Despite an allocation of Rs 5,300 crore in the 2023 budget, the funds have yet to reach the state.
Drought Relief and Financial Assistance
The Chief Minister also highlighted the severe drought conditions affecting more than 200 taluks in Karnataka. While an initial request for Rs 700 crore was made for 101 taluks, Shivakumar noted that the required relief amount will likely increase as the number of affected areas grows. A central team is scheduled to arrive on October 3 to assess the situation on the ground.