Karnataka’s Water Projects: Awaiting the Final Push

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on 7 February highlighted that several major irrigation and drinking water projects in the state—including Krishna Phase III, Mekedatu, and Upper Bhadra—are awaiting statutory clearances and financial support from the Centre.

The Chief Minister made the remarks while laying the foundation stone and performing the bhoomi puja for the Bennehalla flood control project, along with other development works, at Shiraguppi village in the Navalgund Assembly constituency. Recalling that the Supreme Court had cleared the Kalasa-Banduri project in 2018, Siddaramaiah said the tendering process for the project has already been completed.

“If the Central government gives its permission, the work can begin as early as tomorrow,” he said, underscoring the urgency of initiating these long-pending projects. He added that approvals from the National Board for Wildlife are still awaited, which continues to delay execution.

Emphasising the need for timely clearances and funding, the Chief Minister said expediting these projects is crucial to improving irrigation facilities and drinking water supply, and to ensuring tangible benefits for farmers and communities across Karnataka.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.