DK Shivakumar assures Tamil Nadu, Puducherry on Mekedatu during Amit Shah meeting
Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar highlighted the importance of the proposed Mekedatu project during the recent Southern Zonal Council meeting. He explained the project’s importance to representatives from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry and said Karnataka is ready to work with neighbouring states to address their concerns.
Shivakumar said the Mekedatu project should not be viewed as benefiting Karnataka alone. He argued that the project could also help meet water needs in neighbouring states, including Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.
The Mekedatu project has been a long-standing issue between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Karnataka has proposed building a dam across the Cauvery River near the Karnataka-Tamil Nadu border. Karnataka has said the project would help meet drinking water needs and improve water management.
Tamil Nadu has raised objections to the project because of concerns over the flow of Cauvery water into the state. The issue has remained politically sensitive for many years, with both states maintaining different positions on the proposed dam.
During the meeting, Shivakumar assured representatives from the neighbouring states that Karnataka was willing to discuss and resolve issues related to the project. He stressed that cooperation and mutual understanding would be important for finding a solution.
He also said that Karnataka is ready to work closely with Tamil Nadu and Puducherry on water-related matters. According to him, better coordination between the states could help ensure that water resources are managed in a sustainable manner.
The meeting was chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah and included discussions on several issues related to the development of southern India. Water management, infrastructure and regional cooperation were among the broader concerns discussed by the participating states and Union Territory.
Shivakumar used the meeting to highlight Karnataka’s position on the Mekedatu project while also stressing the need for cooperation with neighbouring states. He said discussions should focus on finding solutions that address the water requirements of all stakeholders.
The Cauvery River is an important water source for both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. It supports agriculture and provides drinking water to millions of people. Because of this, projects involving the river often lead to strong discussions between the two states.
Karnataka believes the Mekedatu project can play an important role in improving water storage and meeting drinking water requirements. Tamil Nadu, however, wants to ensure that the project does not affect the state’s share of Cauvery water.
The latest meeting provided an opportunity for Karnataka to present its views directly to representatives from the neighbouring states. Shivakumar’s emphasis on cooperation indicates that Karnataka wants to continue discussions while seeking progress on the project.
The issue is expected to remain an important topic in discussions between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Further talks and decisions by the relevant authorities will determine the future of the Mekedatu project.
Shivakumar said Karnataka remains willing to work with all stakeholders to find practical solutions. The state government hopes that cooperation and better coordination can help address concerns and support sustainable management of the region’s water resources.