Bengaluru, June 18: Karnataka is prepared to engage in discussions with Tamil Nadu regarding the long-pending Mekedatu balancing reservoir and drinking water project. Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar expressed his willingness to talk with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay at any time. He emphasized that both states should rise above politics and focus on the interests of their people.
Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru after casting his vote in the Legislative Council elections, CM Shivakumar stated, “I am ready to discuss the Mekedatu project with Tamil Nadu at any time. I have no hesitation. Whether it is Tamil Nadu or Karnataka, we are one nation and one people. We all depend on the same river water for irrigation, drinking, and industrial use.”
He noted that many people from Tamil Nadu work in Karnataka, and vice versa, indicating that the issue should not be viewed with a narrow mindset.
Shivakumar added, “The Congress party is a coalition partner in the Tamil Nadu government, and we will definitely engage in talks. This project will benefit both states. We must proceed patiently, keeping in mind the advantages for the people of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.”
Explaining the benefits of the project, Shivakumar mentioned that the proposed balancing reservoir would help regulate water release from Karnataka and ensure that Tamil Nadu receives its allocated share during difficult times.
He stated, “The advantage of creating a balancing reservoir is that it will help guarantee Tamil Nadu’s share of 177 TMC of water even during challenging periods. Water can be released for districts like Mandya, Hassan, Chamarajanagar, and Tumakuru when needed. This project will benefit both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.”
CM Shivakumar emphasized that this project is essential not just for Karnataka but for the entire southern region.
He remarked, “Mekedatu is not only close to my heart but is also crucial for all of South India. In fact, this project will benefit Tamil Nadu as much as or more than Karnataka, as we are committed to releasing 177 TMC of water according to the Supreme Court’s directives.”
Shivakumar reiterated that Karnataka has a responsibility to protect the interests of Tamil Nadu’s farmers while also meeting Bengaluru’s growing drinking water needs.
He explained, “We must safeguard the interests of Tamil Nadu’s farmers. Mekedatu is a balancing reservoir. Not a single TMC of water or even a bucket can be diverted beyond permission. This project is primarily for drinking water. Bengaluru’s population is rapidly increasing, and the city needs additional water sources. We cannot bring water from the Krishna river basin; the Cauvery is our main source.”
According to Shivakumar, the project has been misunderstood in Tamil Nadu’s political debates.
He stated, “For the past 40 to 50 years, this issue has often been viewed politically in Tamil Nadu. I do not wish to interfere in their politics. The court has already examined this matter and issued directives. The decisions have been beneficial for both states.”
He noted that Karnataka has consistently complied with the court’s orders regarding water release.
He added, “It is our responsibility to release 177 TMC of water to Tamil Nadu. Last year alone, over 400 TMC of water flowed into the sea. We have not raised any objections to the dam built in Tamil Nadu, and similarly, there should be no objections to any project in Karnataka.”
Shivakumar mentioned that these issues have already been discussed in the Supreme Court. He stated, “When the project is being implemented on Karnataka’s land and we continue to provide Tamil Nadu with its share of water, there should be no objections. We are not seeking any financial assistance from Tamil Nadu for this project.” He noted that this project will not only provide drinking water benefits but will also generate approximately 400 megawatts of electricity.
He concluded, “This project will generate around 400 megawatts of electricity and ensure long-term drinking water security. It will be implemented at the lowest cost.”
Referring to the legal process, Shivakumar explained that the Supreme Court heard Tamil Nadu’s arguments and dismissed the review petition before referring the matter to the Central Water Commission for further technical examination.
He stated, “The Supreme Court considered Tamil Nadu’s arguments, heard the review petition, and dismissed it. The matter was then sent to the Central Water Commission. The orders issued are beneficial for both states.”
Accusing political parties in Tamil Nadu of raising objections for electoral reasons, CM Shivakumar questioned what remains to be debated after the Supreme Court’s decision.
He remarked, “Some individuals continue to raise this issue to preserve their political existence. After the decision of the Supreme Court’s three-judge bench, what more is there to discuss? Have we not already agreed to release 177 TMC of water to Tamil Nadu? MPs from Congress, BJP, and JDS will continue to fight for Karnataka’s interests on this issue.”
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