Key Takeaways
- Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar meets Union ministers over water issues in New Delhi.
- The Mahadayi Kalasa Project and Mekedatu Project are crucial for addressing water scarcity and conservation efforts in Karnataka.
- Shivakumar urges the Centre to expedite approval of the Upper Krishna and Upper Bhadra River Projects as national projects.
New Delhi: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar met Union Forest Minister Bhupender Yadav and Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi, seeking their support for expediting approvals on critical water and conservation projects in the state.
Following his meeting with Bhupender Yadav, Shivakumar Xed on Thursday, “Met Union Forest Minister Shri @byadavbjp in New Delhi today, and urged him to expedite approval for the Mahadayi Kalasa and Bandura Nala Diversion Projects, crucial for addressing water and conservation needs, boosting development and augmenting wildlife welfare.”
In a separate meeting with Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, Shivakumar extended birthday greetings and raised several pressing issues.
He highlighted the need for expedited approval of the Mekedatu Project, the gazette notification regarding the Krishna water dispute, and the declaration of the Upper Krishna and Upper Bhadra River Projects as national projects.
Shivakumar also sought forest and wildlife clearance for the Kalasa Bandura Nala Diversion Project, emphasising their importance for Karnataka’s water and agricultural needs.
Shivakumar further urged Joshi to pressurise the Centre for the swift implementation of these initiatives, which he described as vital for improving drinking water availability and supporting agriculture in Karnataka.
The projects, particularly Mekedatu and Kalasa Bandura, have been long-pending issues and are considered essential for addressing water scarcity and conservation efforts in the state. Shivakumar emphasised their potential to transform the region’s development landscape.
