Karnataka submits DPR on Mekedatu to Centre

The Karnataka Government has submitted a detailed project report (DPR) of the Mekedatu project to the Central Water Commission ( CWC).

As per the DPR, the total project cost will be the Rs 5,900 crore, sources said.

Earlier the CWC, nodal agency of the Union Ministry of Water Resources, had cleared the pre-feasibility report submitted by the Karnataka Government and asked the state to prepare a detailed project report.

The Karnataka Government has proposed the building of a balancing reservoir at Mekedatu on the Cauvery river. This project which will not only help to store excess water generated in the Cauvery basin in Karnataka but also produce electricity.

If the CWC gives its approval to the DPR, then the same will be forwarded to the Ministry of Forest and Environment for green clearance.

Tamil Nadu has been opposing the project alleging that it will deny Cauvery river water to it. However, Karnataka said the Mekedatu project falls within the territorial limits of Karnataka and therefore, there are no legal impediments for Karnataka in constructing the project across Cauvery.

Tamil Nadu had filed a petition in the Supreme Court opposing the project. The Apex Court which had refused to grant a stay for preparing DPR has issued notices to the Water Resources Ministry, Karnataka Government seeking a reply to Tamil Nadu's plea.