The Karnataka government has agreed to pay Rs 257 crore to the central government as mitigation cost for the Yettinahole project. This project is designed to supply drinking water to several drought-prone districts in the state.
Details of the Payment
The state government will release the amount in installments, with the first tranche of Rs 100 crore to be paid immediately. The remaining amount will be paid over the next few years. The mitigation cost is part of the conditions set by the central government for approving the project.
Background of the Yettinahole Project
The Yettinahole project involves diverting water from the Yettinahole stream, a tributary of the Netravati river, to meet the drinking water needs of parched regions in Karnataka. The project has been a subject of controversy, with environmentalists and local communities raising concerns about its ecological impact.
- Project cost: Initially estimated at Rs 13,000 crore, the cost has escalated over time.
- Beneficiaries: The project aims to benefit districts like Kolar, Chikkaballapur, and Tumakuru.
- Current status: Work on the project is ongoing, with several phases completed or under construction.
Government's Stand
Karnataka's Water Resources Minister stated that the payment is necessary to secure the central government's cooperation and ensure the project's timely completion. The minister emphasized that the project is crucial for addressing water scarcity in the state's arid regions.
Criticism and Concerns
Opposition parties and environmental groups have criticized the payment, arguing that the central government should support such projects without imposing additional costs. They also express concerns about the project's long-term sustainability and its impact on the region's ecology.
Despite the challenges, the state government remains committed to the project, citing its potential to transform the lives of millions of people facing water shortages. The mitigation cost payment is seen as a step towards resolving the impasse and moving forward with the project.
