Bengaluru: The Karnataka government has floated a tender to install 39 new gates at the Tungabhadra Reservoir, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar informed the Legislative Assembly on Tuesday.
Shivakumar said that while six gates are already under installation, the tender process has now been expanded to cover the remaining 39 gates. The announcement came during a debate on Tungabhadra dam water management issues, raised by legislators Hampanagouda Badarli, Basanagouda Daddal, and Basanagouda Turvihal under Rule 69 of the Assembly proceedings.
Responding on behalf of the government, the Deputy CM revealed that the Tungabhadra Board has restricted water storage to 1,626 feet instead of the full capacity of 1,633 feet, due to technical concerns.
“Because of this limitation, it will not be possible to release water for the second crop this year. However, the government is committed to safeguarding the interests of farmers. While drinking water and industrial supply will continue, steps are being taken to expedite repairs and address staff shortages,” Shivakumar stated.
The Deputy CM reassured the Assembly that the government remains focused on completing dam repair works, improving water management efficiency, and ensuring long-term safety of the Tungabhadra project.
