Business · India Bureau
Karnataka pushes Centre for speedy nod on water infrastructure projects
Karnataka has renewed calls for the central government to expedite clearance for multiple pending irrigation and drinking water schemes. The push includes the revised development project report for the Mekedatu balancing reservoir initiative.
LSN India ·
The Karnataka government has escalated its request to New Delhi for prompt approval of several stalled water resource projects critical to the state's agricultural and domestic water security. Officials emphasized the urgency of clearing the pipeline of schemes that have been pending administrative sanction at the central level.
The Mekedatu balancing reservoir project figures prominently in the state's petition, with Karnataka highlighting the revised DPR as ready for immediate consideration. The project, intended to facilitate water management across the region, has faced prolonged delays in the clearance process.
Beyond Mekedatu, Karnataka has flagged multiple irrigation and drinking water initiatives awaiting Centre approval. State authorities contend that expedited clearance would enable timely implementation and deliver benefits to farmers and households dependent on these infrastructure developments.
The appeal reflects ongoing coordination challenges between state and central authorities on water resource management. Karnataka has underscored that delays in project approvals directly impact the state's capacity to address water scarcity and support agricultural productivity in drought-prone regions.
Government officials indicated that the revised DPR for Mekedatu incorporates updated technical specifications and cost estimates. They urged the Centre to treat the matter as a priority given its implications for inter-state water security and regional development objectives.