BJP Delegation Urges Union Minister to Approve Almatti Dam Height Increase to 524m

quick Summary

• A delegation of BJP MPs from Karnataka,led by Union Minister Pralhad Joshi,met Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R.Patil to discuss Maharashtra’s objection to raising the height of the Almatti dam under the Upper Krishna Project (second phase).
• Maharashtra opposes Karnataka’s proposal to increase the Almatti dam height from 519 m to 524 m.
• BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai stated that the Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal II has approved Karnataka’s request and termed Maharashtra’s objections as “unwarranted and motivated.”
• Joint surveys, including hydrological studies conducted by the Center and three State governments, concluded that raising the dam would not cause flooding in Sangli or Kolhapur areas.
• Bommai emphasized that tribunal orders are equivalent to Supreme court decrees, asserting Karnataka’s legal right over this development.
• The issue awaits a gazette notification pending before India’s Supreme Court; efforts are being made for early hearing.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The disagreement between Maharashtra and Karnataka over water rights highlights longstanding inter-state tensions regarding shared river systems.While Karnataka cites legal backing through orders of Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal II,concerns raised by maharashtra underline its apprehension about potential adverse effects on downstream regions.Importantly, hydrological studies recognized by multiple stakeholders provide assurance that flooding risks are minimal.

Given India’s need for sustainable management of river resources across state boundaries, adhering strictly to tribunal guidelines without undermining ecological harmony is paramount. This case could also set precedents for similar disputes elsewhere. The resolution being sought through legal pathways reflects maturity but underscores the recurring challenges India faces in balancing equitable resource sharing among states.

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