Water Wars: Karnataka's Mekedatu Dam Dilemma

The Tamil Nadu Water Resources Minister asserts that constructing the Mekedatu dam on the Cauvery River by Karnataka cannot proceed without Tamil Nadu's approval. The minister highlighted the need for multiple clearances, emphasizing the difficulty of the task. Other developments include mining revenue growth and new water management initiatives in Tamil Nadu.

The construction of the Mekedatu balancing reservoir by Karnataka across the Cauvery River remains contentious as Tamil Nadu's Water Resources Minister, Duraimurugan, stressed the necessity of Tamil Nadu's consent. During his Assembly address, he underscored that multiple approvals, including environmental clearances, are needed before moving forward.

Duraimurugan's remarks came in response to a discussion raised by AIADMK's Leader of the Opposition, Edappadi K Palaniswami, urging the government to leverage bilateral relations to resolve water-sharing conflicts with neighboring states like Kerala and Karnataka.

Further, the Minister reported that Tamil Nadu generated significant revenue from mining, with measures against illegal quarrying leading to vehicle confiscations. He announced plans for a modern water resources office in Chennai and the construction of check dams, alongside flood mitigation efforts across several districts.

(With inputs from agencies.)