Newly appointed Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Thursday took a dig at the Tamil Nadu government over the long-pending issue of the Mekedatu Dam project across the Cauvery river between the two states. Shivakumar said the Tamil Nadu government, regardless of party, would play “politics”.
“They have been opposing for the last 30-40 years. The court has already decided on this matter. It is the responsibility of the central government now,” Shivakumar said.
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“We’ll do our job. They’ll do theirs,” he said.
Shivakumar on May 26 welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision to dismiss the review petition filed by the Tamil Nadu government in connection with the Mekedatu project.
Mukidato class
Mekedatu is a multi-purpose (drinking water and power) project proposed by the state of Karnataka, which involves the construction of a stabilizing reservoir near Kanakapura in Ramanagara district (now renamed Bengaluru South district).
Tamil Nadu has opposed the project, raising concerns that the state would be affected if the project takes shape.
The project, once completed, aims to ensure drinking water for Bengaluru and adjoining areas (4.75 tmcft); It can also generate 400 megawatts of power, according to officials.
Tamil Nadu opposition to Mekedatu dispute
The Tamil Nadu government has opposed the Mekedatu Dam project over the years. On Monday, Tamil Nadu Minister Nirmal Kumar reiterated the state government’s stand against the construction of the Makidatu Dam.
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“The construction of the Mukidato Dam will not be allowed at any cost,” news agency ANI quoted him as saying, adding that the state is actively pursuing all necessary legal measures to prevent the project, and is working under the guidance of the Prime Minister.
“We look forward to taking all legal action against the construction of the dam under the guidance of TN Chief Minister Joseph Vijay,” he said.
On May 25, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay held detailed consultations with Cauvery water experts and legal experts on the foundation stone laying ceremony proposed by the Karnataka government for the construction of Mekedatu dam across the Cauvery river.
