Bengaluru: The Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) has directed Karnataka to release 3,500 cusecs of Cauvery water per day to Tamil Nadu, triggering a political row amid concerns over low reservoir levels and a rainfall deficit in the state.
Reacting to the order, BJP MLA Araga Jnanendra termed the CWRC’s decision “unreasonable”, arguing that Karnataka was facing inadequate rainfall in the Cauvery basin and growing drinking water concerns, including in Bengaluru. He alleged that the state government had failed to effectively present Karnataka’s case before the CWRC and other authorities.
Responding to the criticism, Minister Dr. Yathindra Siddaramaiah said the state was legally bound to comply with the directions of the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA). He acknowledged that water availability in the Cauvery basin had declined but stressed that the government would prioritise drinking water needs while deciding on the quantum of water to be released.
The minister said the final decision would be taken by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah after reviewing rainfall, reservoir storage and the overall water situation in the state.
