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Karnataka Advances Mekedatu Project After Supreme Court Victory
In a major boost for Karnataka’s water security and energy goals, the state government is preparing to submit a revised Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Mekedatu reservoir project following its legal triumph in the Supreme Court. The contentious project, which has sparked disputes with Tamil Nadu for years, proposes a balancing reservoir and 400 MW hydroelectric plant on the Cauvery River near Ramanagara district.
Supreme Court Clears Legal Hurdle
The Supreme Court recently dismissed Tamil Nadu’s plea challenging the Mekedatu project. Tamil Nadu had argued that the reservoir would disrupt its allocated share of Cauvery water under the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) award. However, the court upheld Karnataka’s right to draft a DPR, clarifying that the project complies with existing water-sharing agreements.
With the legal barrier removed, Karnataka is accelerating efforts to finalize an updated DPR for submission to the Central Water Commission (CWC). Officials confirm the revised plan will:
– Address environmental safeguards
– Minimize displacement of local communities
– Strictly follow Cauvery water-sharing norms
Mekedatu Project: Key Benefits & Challenges
The ₹9,000 crore project includes:
✔ 67.16 TMC reservoir for drinking water supply to Bengaluru & nearby regions
✔ 400 MW hydroelectric power generation
✔ Flood control measures for monsoon season
Karnataka maintains that the project only optimizes its allocated 284.75 TMC share, without diverting additional water. However, Tamil Nadu remains opposed, citing risks to farmers and ecosystems.
Political & Public Response
- Karnataka Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar called the SC verdict a “historic win”, pledging responsible execution.
- Tamil Nadu leaders vow to continue resistance, fearing agricultural and ecological harm.
- Environmental groups demand rigorous impact assessments, warning of threats to biodiversity.
Next Steps: DPR Submission & Central Approval
Karnataka aims to submit the revised DPR by early 2025, followed by central clearance. If approved, construction could take 5+ years, though further legal delays remain possible.
Strategic Importance of Mekedatu
Beyond water security, the project supports:
🔹 Bengaluru’s urban water demand amid rapid growth
🔹 India’s renewable energy targets via hydroelectric power
🔹 Interstate water management precedents for future projects
Conclusion: Karnataka’s Determined Push
With the Supreme Court’s clearance, Karnataka is moving decisively on Mekedatu—but challenges persist. The state’s focus now is on securing central approval while balancing ecological and political concerns.
Stay updated with NextMinuteNews for the latest developments.
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