Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Discusses Mekedatu Project Amid Tamil Nadu Resistance

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has expressed his willingness to discuss the Mekedatu project with Tamil Nadu. However, the neighboring state has yet to come forward despite the project not posing any issues. With central government approval, Karnataka is ready to proceed with the project's implementation, aimed at benefiting both states.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated on Monday that his government is prepared to discuss the Mekedatu project with Tamil Nadu. However, the neighboring state has yet to engage despite the project posing no issues for them.

Siddaramaiah emphasized that Karnataka is ready to implement the Mekedatu project once the central government grants permission. This statement comes as Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, and other officials offered a traditional ‘bagina’ to the Cauvery River at the Krishnaraja Sagar (KRS) dam.

While the Mekedatu project, aimed at securing drinking water for Bengaluru and generating 400 MW power, remains stalled, Shivakumar has appealed to Tamil Nadu for cooperation. Despite opposition due to concerns of potential impact, Karnataka officials assert the project, costing Rs 9,000 crore, could be mutually beneficial. Steps like land surveys are already underway pending necessary clearances for the project.