CPI urges Karnataka to release water for irrigation

Chennai, June 14 (UNI) As the Mettur dam could not be opened on the scheduled date of June 12 for irrigating Kuruvai crops, the Communist Party of India (CPI) today urged Karnataka to release the quantum of water stipulated by the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal for the month of May and June for the benefit of farmers.

Talking to newspersons here, CPI State Secretary D Pandian said if Karnataka hesitated to release it, then the Centre should direct that State to honour the final award of the Tribunal.

''One need not wait for the outcome of the review petition filed by Tamil Nadu...an award is an award and it should be honoured,'' he said.

He said the Mettur dam could not be opened for irrigation as there was no water due to scanty rainfall.

''As per the final award, Karnataka should release the stipulated quantum of water for the months of May and June. We are not demanding anything new. Karnataka should honour and implement the Tribunal's award,'' Mr Pandian added.

UNI