Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar Requests Centre's Approval for Six New Irrigation Projects

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, who also manages the irrigation portfolio, has sought approvals and financial support for six new irrigation projects in Karnataka. He also requested funds for ongoing projects. On Tuesday, Shivakumar met with Union Water Resource Minister C R Patil to present these appeals, according to a statement from his office.

The deputy chief minister's submissions included requests for funding six new proposals under the Prime Minister Irrigation Scheme. These projects are estimated to cost Rs 11,123 crore. The proposed initiatives include flood management and border area programmes at Bennehalla and the creation of new irrigation potential of 16,000 hectares under the Sonthi lift irrigation project across the Bhima river.

Focus on New Irrigation Projects

Among the new proposals are Extension, Renovation, and Modernisation (ERM) works at Malaprabha canal systems, Indi branch canal under the Upper Krishna project, Ghataprabha right bank canal, Chikkodi branch canal, and Tungabhadra left bank canal. These projects aim to benefit districts such as Vijayapura, Dharwad, Belagavi, Bagalkot, Gadag, Koppal, and Raichur.

Shivakumar also addressed issues concerning existing irrigation projects in Karnataka. He sought approvals for the Mekedatu project and central assistance for the Upper Bhadra project. Additionally, he requested a Gazette notification for the Krishna Water Distribution Tribunal-II award and clearance for Kalasa-Bhanduri canal projects.

Automation Proposal and Other Requests

The deputy chief minister informed the Union minister about plans to submit a proposal soon for automating dams and canal systems. This initiative aims to improve efficient irrigation management across the state. Furthermore, Shivakumar discussed diverting surplus water from the Mahanadi-Godavari basin to Krishna-Cauvery and Pennar-Palar basins.

Union Minister Patil advised Shivakumar to resubmit the Yettinahole drinking water project proposal through the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj department. This would allow consideration under the Jal Jeevan Mission of the Union government. Initially, this proposal was submitted via the Irrigation department.

These developments highlight Karnataka's efforts to enhance its irrigation infrastructure through both new projects and improvements to existing ones. The focus remains on securing necessary approvals and funding to ensure sustainable water management across various districts.