Netravathi project still needs discussion, says CM
Still opposes any threat to Western Ghats and coastal districts
A decision on the implementation of the irrigation project involving Netravathi River will be taken only after further discussion with representatives of dryland area districts and water experts, said Chief Minister D V Sadananda Gowda.
He spoke to leaders of various organisations, including permanent irrigation agitation committee in the city on Friday. Former minister K Srinivasa Gowda and others submitted a memorandum to the CM saying his controversial statement in relation to the project had led to a lot of confusion and created alarm among local residents.
In reaction, the CM assured the leaders that they need not worry going by the media versions of his sayings. He added that the government was ready to solve the water problems in the dryland districts, including Kolar, Chikkaballapur, Tumkur and Chitradurga.
No change in stand
“I am, however, still against the implementation of any project that is a threat to the ecology of the Western Ghats and to the people of the area. My stand will not change on this issue. I cannot give a positive response to any idea that creates problems to the coastal districts,” the CM clarified.
Sadandanda Gowda said there would be a discussion with water expert Paramashivaiah, who has prepared a report on means of providing water to the dryland districts, as well as representatives of various organisations within the next 15 days.
“The government hopes to implement any one project that will alleviate the water problem of the four districts within one month,” he added.
Without problems
The CM said it was important to ensure drawing water from any source did not create problems for anybody. The programme should be planned so that there is no threat to the environment either.
“We have already released Rs 200 crore for the Yettinahole project. There are also efforts to immediately solve the water problems here. There are opportunities to draw water for Kolar district from the Upper Bhadra Project. The Cabinet has given green signal for release of Rs 17,000 crore for the project,” the explained.
Verbal duel
Some of the leaders listening to the Chief Minister expressed opposition to his remarks.
Sadananda Gowda, however, gave them an angry look, in response. “Listen if you have the patience, or I shall go away. We cannot get water just by organising processions supporting or opposing projects,” he commented.
