Karnataka Seeks Center's Nod for Rs 16,745-Crore Mekedatu Project

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar met with Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil in New Delhi to press for the expedited clearance and funding of key state water initiatives, most notably the Rs 16,745-crore Mekedatu Balancing Reservoir and Drinking Water Project.

Emphasizing that the Mekedatu water is intended strictly for drinking purposes, Shivakumar invited Tamil Nadu to send a delegation to inspect the site and proposed bilateral discussions with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay. During the meeting, Shivakumar submitted a fresh Detailed Project Report (DPR) and requested its prioritization by the Central Water Commission, alongside discussions on other critical budgetary allocations and projects.

Additionally, Union Minister Patil assured a joint chief-ministerial meeting to help resolve lingering inter-state water disputes, including the Mahadayi dispute with Goa and Upper Krishna project matters.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.