Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar Discusses Cauvery Water Shortage

Bengaluru, Karnataka: On July 12, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and Irrigation Minister D K Shivakumar addressed the water storage deficit in the Cauvery basin reservoirs, which stands at 28%. He mentioned that the current water storage level is 62%, with a deficit of 19 TMC. Specific reservoir levels are Harangi at 73%, Hemavathi at 55%, KRS at 54%, and Kabini at 96%.

When asked about water release from Kabini to Tamil Nadu, Shivakumar confirmed that water is being released in line with safety norms. He also mentioned that a decision on releasing water for Mandya farmers would be made after an all-party meeting.

Shivakumar highlighted the insufficient rains and the directive from the Cauvery Water Management Authority for Karnataka to release 1 TMC of water daily to Tamil Nadu. He has consulted with legal experts Shyam Dewan and Mohan Katharaki for suggestions on the way forward.

The Tamil Nadu and Karnataka governments have been in a long-standing dispute over the sharing of Cauvery River water, a crucial resource for both states. Recently, the Cauvery Water Control Committee directed Karnataka to release 1 thousand million cubic feet of water daily to Tamil Nadu, prompting an emergency meeting at Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s residence.

Shivakumar also commented on the Centre’s announcement to celebrate June 25 as “Constitution Murder Day” in remembrance of the 1975 Emergency, asserting that the Congress party has continued to govern the country post-Emergency, with leaders like Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, P V Narasimha Rao, and Manmohan Singh being elected as Prime Ministers.