Karnataka Ready for Dialogue on Mekedatu Project, Says Chief Minister

Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has extended an open invitation for dialogue with Tamil Nadu regarding the long-pending Mekedatu Balancing Reservoir and Drinking Water Project. Speaking in Bengaluru, Shivakumar stated his willingness to engage with his Tamil Nadu counterpart at any time, advocating for a collaborative approach that sets aside political differences for the welfare of the people in both states.

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I am ready to talk to Tamil Nadu at any point regarding the Mekedatu project. I have no reservations in this regard. Whether it is Tamil Nadu or Karnataka, we are one nation and one people. We all depend on the waters of the same river. Water is needed for irrigation, drinking purposes and industrial use.

Shivakumar underscored the shared nature of the Cauvery River, emphasizing that its waters are vital for irrigation, drinking, and industrial use in both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. He highlighted the close ties between the two states, noting the significant number of people from each state residing and working in the other. This interdependence, he argued, necessitates cooperation rather than narrow-mindedness on the Mekedatu issue.

Detailing the project's benefits, Shivakumar explained that the balancing reservoir would allow Karnataka to manage water releases effectively. Crucially, it would ensure Tamil Nadu continues to receive its allocated 177 TMC of water, even during periods of scarcity. The project would also facilitate water release for districts in Karnataka, such as Mandya, Hassan, Chamarajanagar, and Tumakuru, addressing their needs.

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The advantage of constructing a balancing reservoir is that it will help us guarantee Tamil Nadu’s share of 177 TMC of water even during times of crisis. Water for districts such as Mandya, Hassan, Chamarajanagar and Tumakuru could be released when required. The project will benefit both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

Shivakumar stressed the project's importance beyond Karnataka, framing it as beneficial for South India as a whole. He reiterated Karnataka's commitment to releasing the Supreme Court-mandated 177 TMC of water to Tamil Nadu, asserting that the Mekedatu project would serve Tamil Nadu's interests significantly, possibly even more than Karnataka's. He also noted the project's role in meeting Bengaluru's increasing drinking water demands while upholding Karnataka's duty to protect Tamil Nadu's farmers.

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Mekedatu is not just close to my heart, it is important for all of South India. In fact, the project will benefit Tamil Nadu as much as, if not more than, Karnataka because we remain committed to releasing 177 TMC of water as directed by the Supreme Court.