Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge dismisses TNCC’s opposition to Mekedatu project, says “personal opinions don’t matter”
Kharge’s remarks came in response to the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee’s (TNCC) strong opposition to the proposed Mekedatu balancing reservoir along the Cauvery River.
Kharge emphasized the legal and developmental necessity of the project.
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The Minister said, “Whether it is me, you or anyone else, we have to proceed in line with the directions of the Supreme Court. They said that excess water is flowing into the sea. They also said that Kannadigas can use this water efficiently. We will take whatever necessary in this regard. Personal opinions have no importance here.”
Reiterating the state government’s commitment to address the water crisis in the state capital and support the agricultural community, Kharge said the project was vital for the growth of the region.
“What is important is that our farmers benefit and Bengaluru’s drinking water needs are met. Overall, this is an issue about economic development and activity, not just about agriculture.”
The resolution, submitted by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay, reiterated Tamil Nadu’s objections to the project, citing legal and constitutional concerns, and argued that the project could affect downstream water availability, especially during drought periods.
While the move has received support from major parties in the Assembly, including the Congress and VCK, opposition parties such as the AIADMK have also reiterated their long-standing objections to the project, warning about its impact on water availability during drought periods.
Karnataka leaders argued that the project aims to utilize surplus water and will not affect the share allocated to Tamil Nadu under the existing Cauvery water sharing arrangements. However, Tamil Nadu has consistently opposed the proposal, arguing that any additional storage in the upstream could reduce or delay the release of Cauvery waters to downstream areas and pose an irrigation threat to farmers.
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The proposed Mekedatu project is a ₹9,000-crore multi-purpose dam planned by the Karnataka government along the Cauvery River near Kanakapura in Ramanagara district, near the confluence of the Cauvery and Arkavathi rivers.
