Former MP Demands Implementation of Varada-Bedti River Linking Project
Former MP Manjunath Kunnur has made a strong appeal to both the state and union governments. He wants them to move forward with the Varada-Bedti river linking project. Kunnur believes this project will greatly benefit farmers in Haveri, Gadag, Koppal, and Raichur districts.
Addressing Opposition and Historical Delays
Speaking to reporters in Haveri on Friday, Kunnur expressed his frustration. He said people in Uttara Kannada have opposed the project without any valid reason. The union government first identified this project back in 1995. However, it has remained only on paper since then due to a lack of political will.
Kunnur pointed out that all governments, regardless of their political affiliations, have shown little interest in this matter. Now, with both the union and state governments showing some interest, he urged them not to step back. He specifically requested they not yield to pressure from Uttara Kannada residents.
Appeal to Uttara Kannada and Environmental Concerns
Kunnur made a direct appeal to the public, political leaders, and religious leaders in Uttara Kannada. He asked them not to oppose the project for purely political reasons. He emphasized that the revised plan for the project causes much less harm to the environment.
He highlighted the severe water scarcity faced by farmers in Haveri, Gadag, Koppal, and Raichur during the summer months. According to Kunnur, only 8% of water would be lifted from the Bedti River to the Varada River. The rest of the water in the Bedti River currently goes to waste, flowing into the Arabian Sea.
Call for Proper Planning and Priority
Kunnur stressed the importance of preparing a Detailed Project Report properly. He requested that Haveri district be given prime priority in water sharing. This, he believes, is crucial for the welfare of local farmers.
Farmers' Groups Plan Awareness Meeting
Mallikarjun Ballari, general secretary of the Karnataka Rajya Raita Sangha and Hasiru Sene in Haveri district, provided additional context. He mentioned that people in Uttara Kannada recently held a protest in Sirsi to oppose the Varada-Bedti river linking project. A large crowd gathered for this protest.
In response, Ballari said they have decided to organize a meeting to create awareness about the project. This meeting is scheduled for January 26 in Haveri. It will take place at Shivabasava Kalyana Mantap starting at 2 pm.
The meeting will see participation from religious leaders, political leaders across parties, elected representatives, and former elected representatives. Ballari clarified that their goal is to decide how to put pressure on the government. They want the project implemented without any external pressure influencing the decision.
Several farmers' leaders were present during these discussions. They included Ramanna Kencheller, Malatesh Pujar, HH Mulla, Adiveppa Aladakatti, and Shivayogi Hosagoudra.
