Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay on Friday moved a resolution in the state assembly urging the central government not to grant technical and environmental clearance for Karnataka's proposed Mekedatu project. The resolution, passed unanimously, highlights the state's longstanding opposition to the project, which it argues would adversely affect Tamil Nadu's water share from the Cauvery river.
Background of the Dispute
The Mekedatu project, planned across the Cauvery river in Karnataka's Ramanagara district, aims to supply drinking water to Bengaluru and generate hydroelectric power. Tamil Nadu has consistently opposed the project, claiming it violates the final award of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal and the Supreme Court's 2018 judgment, which allocated water shares among the riparian states.
Assembly Resolution
In the resolution, CM Vijay emphasized that any construction of the Mekedatu dam would reduce the inflow of water into Tamil Nadu, impacting irrigation and drinking water needs. The assembly urged the Centre to reject the project's clearance, citing environmental and technical concerns raised by Tamil Nadu's water resources department.
The chief minister also called for a unified stance among all political parties in the state to protect Tamil Nadu's water rights. The resolution was supported by members across party lines, reflecting a rare consensus on the issue.
Reactions from Karnataka
Karnataka officials have defended the project, stating it is within their rights under the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal award. They argue that the project will not affect downstream flows and will benefit the region's water-scarce areas. However, Tamil Nadu maintains that any new dam on the Cauvery requires the consent of all riparian states.
Next Steps
The resolution will be forwarded to the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Ministry of Jal Shakti for consideration. Tamil Nadu plans to continue its legal and diplomatic efforts to block the project, including approaching the Supreme Court if necessary.
This development comes amid heightened tensions between the two states over water sharing, with both sides accusing each other of violating the tribunal's orders. The Centre is expected to take a decision after reviewing all technical and environmental reports.
