Karnataka seeks clearances for irrigation projects, including Mekedatu
The Karnataka government is urging the Central government to expedite clearances for several major irrigation projects, including the Mekedatu Balancing Reservoir. Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is seeking central financial assistance and regulatory approvals to optimize water resource usage.
Why it matters
Water management and irrigation infrastructure are critical for regional agricultural stability and economic growth in India.
Karnataka has again urged the Centre to expedite clearance for the ₹16,745-crore Mekedatu Balancing Reservoir Project and has sought early appraisal and approval of the detailed project report (DPR) by the Central Water Commission (CWC). The State has also conveyed its in-principle concurrence to the Godavari-Cauvery Link and Bedti-Varada (Hirevadatti) Link projects, subject to certain considerations.
Karnataka submitted the DPR, along with its compliance report, to the CWC on August 13, 2026, for appraisal and has been pursuing the matter with the Commission, seeking priority clearance, according to a letter to Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil. Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who met the Union Minister, sought Central clearances for various irrigation projects to enable the State to utilise its legitimate share of water resources.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in