DK Shivakumar Says No Drinking Water Shortage In Bengaluru, Irrigation Needs Managed Effectively

Bengaluru water crisis: Amid numerous reports suggesting that Bengaluru is facing a severe water crisis, Karnataka minister DK Shivakumar on Wednesday dismissed concerns, asserting that there is no shortage of drinking water in the city.

Shivakumar, who also oversees the water resources department, stated that the government is effectively managing irrigation requirements.

Photo Credit: https://x.com/DKShivakumar

"There is no problem with drinking water in the state. We have sufficient drinking water, and we are managing irrigation needs effectively," Shivakumar told ANI.

Speaking at the second All-India Water Resources Ministers' Conference in Udaipur, Shivakumar said several key issues concerning Karnataka were discussed.

"During the discussions, we addressed the Tungabhadra River issue and expressed our desire to construct an alternate dam. The relevant ministers held meetings with Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, and I personally spoke with Chandra Babu Naidu. We also emphasised the necessity of removing silt, which is causing significant difficulties in water storage," he stated.

Shivakumar mentioned that he had requested a meeting with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandra Babu Naidu to discuss the matter further. He also spoke about the Mekedatu Dam project.

"Since the central government must provide its opinion, it is essential that the project benefits both Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. While we may be political opponents, the Mekedatu project must be advantageous for both states," he said.

"We also discussed the Almatti Dam on the Krishna River, for which a gazette notification is pending. We have already initiated related work, which will be carried out in stages," he added.

Shivakumar noted that discussions were held regarding plans to interlink the Krishna, Cauvery, and Godavari rivers, which would be beneficial for all the states involved.

The Minister for Minor Irrigation also presented project proposals worth ₹14,000 crore. A proposal has been formally submitted for these projects, he confirmed.

"I have requested all MPs to submit proposals concerning their constituencies that will also benefit the state in terms of irrigation projects. Regarding the Upper Bhadra Project, we discussed the current status and were informed about some technical aspects. The Upper Bhadra Project will significantly benefit the state," he stated.

Addressing his visit to Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev's Isha Yoga Centre in Coimbatore, Shivakumar said, "I have already been criticised for my visit to Isha Foundation later today. I have been invited by Sadhguru, so I will be going there. I am a born Hindu who loves all religions, and it does not mean that I am coming close to the BJP. I have not met Amit Shah at all."

He dismissed speculation circulating on social media that he was aligning with the BJP.

"I have seen some media reports and social media discussions, and my friends are calling to ask whether I am getting closer to the BJP. I am a born Congressman, my visit to Maha Kumbh is based on my beliefs, and I respect all religions. Such speculations do not affect me in the slightest; I do not take the BJP's allegations seriously," he remarked.

(With ANI inputs)