New Delhi: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, who also handles the irrigation portfolio, on Tuesday appealed to the Centre for ₹11,122.76 crore to fund six key irrigation projects in the state.
Speaking at a press conference at Karnataka Bhawan, Shivakumar detailed the funding requirements: ₹804.66 crore for the Sonnathi Lift Irrigation Project, ₹2,660.70 crore for the Indi branch canal under the Upper Krishna Project, ₹3,000 crore for the third stage of the Malaprabha canal, ₹1,144.42 crore for the Ghataprabha right bund and Chikkodi branch canals, and ₹1,610 crore for a flood prevention project at Benne Halla.
“We’ve heard that one project has been approved, but we are yet to receive official confirmation,” he said.
Shivakumar also reiterated the state’s appeal for 25% financial support for the Yettinahole drinking water project. “The delay has been due to forest clearance issues, but the Union Environment Minister has assured us of a resolution soon,” he said.
‘No Guarantee Until Funds Are Credited’
On the long-delayed Upper Bhadra project, Shivakumar stated, “We have submitted revised cost estimates as required. The Centre has assured us of funds, but until the money reaches our account, nothing is guaranteed.”
When asked about repeated Centre promises that haven’t materialised, he responded, “Ask the Centre whether they lack funds or are playing politics. We’ve submitted all expenditure records.”
Quid-Pro-Quo with Goa on Kalasa-Bhanduri
Addressing the Goa government’s objection to power transmission lines through Karnataka, he said, “We told them we’d cooperate if they support us on Kalasa-Bhanduri. The Environment Minister said he’ll convey his stand within a week.”
He also highlighted that the Kalasa-Bhanduri project received approval during BJP’s rule in Karnataka, and tenders were floated accordingly. “Despite that, Goa issued a show-cause notice in 2023. We’ve taken the matter to court, as Goa has no legal grounds to object to work within our state,” he said.
Mekedatu and Krishna Water Sharing
Shivakumar said the state has sought approval from the Jal Shakti Ministry for the Detailed Project Report (DPR) of the Mekedatu balancing reservoir, in line with the Cauvery Water Management Authority’s directive. “We have also conveyed to the minister that the project would benefit Tamil Nadu. He has assured us of discussions with Tamil Nadu,” he added.
He also revealed that the long-pending Krishna river water sharing meeting, cancelled previously, would be scheduled this month. “The tribunal has allowed us to increase the height of the Almatti dam, but the Gazette notification is pending. I’ve requested the minister to hold a meeting with Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana before the Parliament session,” Shivakumar said.
Union Minister V Somanna accompanied DK Shivakumar during his meetings with the Union Environment Minister and the Jal Shakti Minister.
