Chennai: MDMK general secretary Vaiko on Saturday announced that he would lead a protest condemning the Karnataka government's proposed Mekedatu dam project across the Cauvery river. The demonstration is scheduled to take place in Chennai on June 2.
Vaiko's response to Karnataka's stand
Referring to Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar's recent remarks that the dam would definitely be constructed, Vaiko said the protest was aimed at opposing Karnataka's adamant stand and pressing the Union government to deny clearance for the project.
Vaiko stated that the protest would be held near the Chennai district collectorate under his leadership, along with several political parties, farmers' associations, and social organisations.
Allegations against the project
Stating that Karnataka had allocated Rs 5,900 crore for the project and was preparing materials for construction, Vaiko alleged that the proposed dam, capable of storing 68 thousand million cubic (TMC) feet of water, would violate the orders of the Supreme Court and the Cauvery Water Management Authority.
He warned that the project would severely affect Tamil Nadu's irrigation needs, reduce water inflow to the Mettur dam, and leave delta districts dependent on Cauvery water facing distress.
Appeal for support
Vaiko appealed to farmers, traders, and public welfare organisations to extend their support to the agitation against the Mekedatu dam project.
