PTI
New Delhi
Stating that he has met Union ministers and demanded early clearance and forest nod for the Kalasa Banduri water project, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Wednesday said a related tender has already been issued.
Shivakumar, who also holds the irrigation portfolio, said he has also requested the Centre for a fund of Rs 3,000 crore for the third stage of the Malaprabha canal.
The Kalasa Banduri project, which aims to divert water from the Mhadei (also known as Mahadayi) basin in Karnataka into the Malaprabha basin, is a major point of contention between Karnataka and Goa.
Goa is concerned that the project will significantly reduce water flow in the Mhadei River, known as Mandovi in Goa, impacting its ecology, agriculture and water supply. Karnataka, on the other hand, argues that the diversion will help address its water needs, particularly in the Malaprabha basin.
Shivakumar said, “It is a drinking water project and will not affect Goa. Goa cannot dictate us. Let the central government decide this matter.” Shivakumar said the Karnataka government plans to withdraw a case filed in the Supreme Court in this regard and is taking legal opinion on the same.
He said the Goa government issued a show-cause notice to Karnataka in 2023 objecting to works falling under the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary.
