Karnataka only wants its share of the Cauvery River, claims Ramalinga Reddy

Bengaluru: Karnataka's Water Resources Minister Ramalinga Reddy reiterated on Saturday that the state is seeking only the share of Cauvery river water allocated to it; it does not want "even a single drop" more than that from Tamil Nadu. Reddy reaffirmed that the proposed Mekedatu project would benefit farmers in both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. He made these remarks while responding to the Tamil Nadu government's opposition to the Mekedatu balancing reservoir project.

Can the issue can be resolved through dialogue?

Addressing reporters in Bengaluru, Reddy stated that the issue could be resolved through dialogue and that Karnataka is ready to hold discussions with Tamil Nadu. Referring to discussions with the Union Ministry of Water Resources regarding inter-state water issues, he emphasized that Karnataka does not want even a drop more than its allocated share; the state only seeks the water that has been allotted to it. He noted that Tamil Nadu has opposed the project despite its potential benefits.

Is the Mekedatu DPR ready?

He remarked that had the Mekedatu dam already been constructed and water stored in it, Karnataka could have released water to Tamil Nadu despite the rainfall deficit. It would have also helped meet drinking water requirements. The monthly release of water would have benefited farmers in Tamil Nadu. He stated that by opposing the project, Tamil Nadu is actually creating difficulties for its own farmers. He also mentioned that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for Mekedatu is ready.

The Minister stated, "We have submitted it to the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee. They have suggested some modifications, which we are incorporating. We will proceed once we receive their approval." He explained that it is primarily a water storage dam. It will provide 4.75 TMC of drinking water to Bengaluru but will not supply water for irrigation. Additionally, it will generate approximately 400 MW of electricity. He asked whether it would not be better for the neighboring states to resolve these issues through mutual agreement.

Are there limited water in Karnataka's reservoirs?

Commenting on the current water situation, Reddy stated that water levels in Karnataka's reservoirs are limited. Referring to the Tamil Nadu Assembly's recent resolution against the Mekedatu project, Reddy noted that legal challenges filed against the project have not succeeded. According to him, Tamil Nadu had filed a petition in court in 2018, which was dismissed; a subsequent review petition filed by them was also rejected.

Could it take until 2050?

He remarked that despite their petitions being dismissed twice by the Supreme Court, their Legislative Assembly and Chief Minister continue to insist that they will fight on this issue. He suggested that it would be better to resolve the matter through dialogue. What happens if everything goes to court? The matter will drag on for years. Just look at the Krishna River water dispute; even after 13 or 14 years, the final notification has not been issued. Three states have approached the court. At this pace, it could take until 2050 to resolve the issue.