📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Ministry of External Affairs
Politics
Karnataka CM Shivakumar urges Tamil Nadu’s backing for Mekedatu after SC clears project
✍️ The Economic Times
🗓 08 Nov 2026, 09:17 PM
👁 10
Chief Minister K. Shivakumar appealed to Tamil Nadu for cooperation on the Mekedatu water‑sharing project, citing a recent Supreme Court ruling that cleared Karnataka’s case.
Karnataka Chief Minister K. Shivakumar said the state is seeking Tamil Nadu’s support for the long‑awaited Mekedatu inter‑state water project. In a press briefing, he highlighted that the Supreme Court has recently ruled in Karnataka’s favour, removing legal hurdles that had stalled the scheme.
The Mekedatu project, intended to divert Cauvery water to Bengaluru and surrounding districts, has faced staunch opposition from Tamil Nadu, which fears reduced river flow downstream. Shivakumar’s outreach aims to ease tensions and secure political goodwill for the project’s implementation.
He urged Tamil Nadu’s leadership to engage constructively, emphasizing that cooperation would benefit both states by ensuring sustainable water management and regional development. The statement comes as both states prepare for further negotiations on water allocation.
The Supreme Court verdict, delivered earlier this month, affirmed Karnataka’s right to proceed with the diversion after a detailed examination of river‑flow data and environmental clearances. The court’s decision is expected to accelerate construction activities that have been on hold for years.
Stakeholders from both states are now expected to meet in the coming weeks to discuss operational details and address any residual concerns, with the central government monitoring the dialogue.
The Mekedatu project, intended to divert Cauvery water to Bengaluru and surrounding districts, has faced staunch opposition from Tamil Nadu, which fears reduced river flow downstream. Shivakumar’s outreach aims to ease tensions and secure political goodwill for the project’s implementation.
He urged Tamil Nadu’s leadership to engage constructively, emphasizing that cooperation would benefit both states by ensuring sustainable water management and regional development. The statement comes as both states prepare for further negotiations on water allocation.
The Supreme Court verdict, delivered earlier this month, affirmed Karnataka’s right to proceed with the diversion after a detailed examination of river‑flow data and environmental clearances. The court’s decision is expected to accelerate construction activities that have been on hold for years.
Stakeholders from both states are now expected to meet in the coming weeks to discuss operational details and address any residual concerns, with the central government monitoring the dialogue.