Minister informs that overall development is being planned

“The Government is planning to bring four districts in the State to provide special grants under the comprehensive development project. Kolar is one of such districts, the others being Shimoga, Karwar and Bijapur,” he said.

Drinking water and irrigation projects are included in the comprehensive development project. “The district administration should prepare a blueprint for this and cooperate with the Government,” he suggested.

Reacting to the Minister's suggestion, Deputy Commissioner Manoj Kumar Meena said senior officers Nandakumar and K V Raju, who visited the district recently, have informed the district administration about the matter.

Therefore, he would personally ensure that a blueprint for primary preparations and developmental activities would be prepared and a copy submitted to the Government. The blueprint for development of the district would be drawn on the same lines, he added.

Water from Mekedaatu

The project to get Cauvery waters from Mekedaatu to solve the drinking water problem in the district permanently has been given a go ahead.

Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department secretary G K Boregowda provided further information on the matter.

Financial aid

“Discussions have been organised with Minor Irrigation secretary on getting water from Cauvery through Mekedaatu. The project would cost up to Rs 1,500 crore and the World Bank has agreed to provide financial help to set up the project,” he explained.

“In addition, permission will be provided to start other drinking water projects in the district, including the Upper Bhadra Project, as soon as possible,” he promised.