The state government of Karnataka has recently issued a significant order instructing the Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) to annually reserve 24 thousand million cubic feet (TMC) of Cauvery water. This allocation is specifically intended to cater to the crucial drinking water requirements of Bengaluru and its adjoining regions. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, during a press briefing in New Delhi, highlighted the government’s commitment to adhere to the Supreme Court’s directive, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing drinking water needs in the region.
Source: NDTV
Deputy CM Shivakumar emphasized that the state government has brought the Mekedatu project issue to the attention of the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) during its 89th meeting. He expressed optimism that the matter would be thoroughly discussed in the upcoming meeting, with government officials actively engaged in managing the proceedings. The proposed Mekedatu project, Shivakumar stressed, could prove to be a crucial solution in mitigating water shortages during distressful periods for both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, particularly underscored by the ongoing year’s challenges.
Addressing potential objections from Tamil Nadu regarding Karnataka’s decision to reserve 24 TMC of Cauvery water for Bengaluru’s drinking water, Shivakumar highlighted the Supreme Court’s explicit directive prioritizing drinking water requirements. Asserting the state’s commitment to safeguard its interests, he underscored the government’s dedication to ensuring the reserved 24 TMCFT of water is stored in the Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) reservoir or any other appropriate location within the Cauvery basin.
Source: The Indian Express
Furthermore, Shivakumar stressed the multifaceted benefits of the Mekedatu project for both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, emphasizing its potential to conserve surplus water from flowing into the Arabian Sea. He expressed the government’s preparedness to present a comprehensive data-driven proposal during the Authority’s meeting to substantiate their case and allay any concerns from relevant stakeholders.
