Madikeri: The Cauvery River water-sharing formula has been termed unscientific by HK Ramu, president of the Cauvery River Protection Committee. He stated that preparations are underway to file a writ petition in the Supreme Court after gathering actual data on the river's water flow.
Committee's Findings and Next Steps
Speaking to reporters in Kushalnagar, Ramu revealed that a committee of experts conducted a two-day visit to Kodagu district and collected comprehensive information. The situation in Mysuru and Mandya regions was also examined, and an application will be submitted to the court soon, accompanied by the relevant statistics.
Somanatheshwara Swami, head of the Adichunchanagiri Mutt's Mysuru branch, who was part of the delegation, said that the Cauvery River Protection Committee will visit all areas where the river flows in Karnataka. The committee will review the current situation and provide comprehensive information to the Supreme Court. He emphasized that an attempt will be made to find a permanent solution to the problems faced by farmers by observing their conditions in the Cauvery basin in Karnataka.
Tour and Report to Government
Nischalanandanath Swami, head of Vishwa Vokkaligara Maha Sansthan and also part of the team, stated that under the guidance of Nirmalanandanatha Swami, head of Adichunchanagiri Mutt, the committee—comprising senior retired officers, experts, and leaders of organizations—will tour the Cauvery river basin areas. They will submit a report to the Karnataka government, after which a writ petition will be filed in the Supreme Court.
He highlighted that the Cauvery water dispute has also caused a stir regarding drinking water availability. The Mekedatu project should be implemented immediately, and the Union government, including the Tamil Nadu government, should give its consent. He argued that earlier decisions in the Cauvery dispute cannot be accepted, as they have caused water shortages for the state and its farmers.
Support from Religious Leaders
Bettadapura Kannada Mutt seer Channabasava Swami wished success for the committee's struggle. Senior litterateur Pradhan Gurudutt spoke and honored the state coordinator of the Cauvery River Cleanliness Movement, MN Chandramohan, in Kushalnagar.
