Karnataka CM's 7th guarantee: Water security, Yettinahole supply to Kolar, Chickballapur by 2027
Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Monday announced that the state government has decided to ensure water security as its seventh guarantee scheme. Promising that water from the Yettinahole project will reach the parched districts of Kolar and Chickballapur by the end of 2027, he said the new guarantee is a step towards addressing the long-standing water crisis in the region.
Speaking after inaugurating development projects in Malur taluk of Kolar district, the Chief Minister sought to allay fears about the feasibility of the project. In an apparent reference to JD(S) state president H.D. Kumaraswamy's remark that the project cannot be implemented, he said, “It is a difficult project, but should we not make an effort to implement it? Nothing worthwhile comes easy.” He reiterated the government's commitment to bringing water from the Western Ghats through Hassan to Kolar and Chickballapur. He also mentioned that water has already been brought up to Tumakuru, indicating progress on the project.
The Yettinahole project is a major water supply scheme conceived to divert water from the Netravati River in the Western Ghats to the drought-prone districts of central Karnataka. The project has been discussed for several years and has faced legal and environmental challenges. Successive governments have backed the project, recognising its potential to transform the arid landscape of the region.
Kolar and Chickballapur are among the most water-stressed districts in Karnataka. Groundwater levels have dipped alarmingly, often exceeding 2,000 feet, making cultivation difficult. Despite this, the region's farmers have managed to supply milk, vegetables, silk, and flowers to Bengaluru, contributing to the state's economy.
The Chief Minister detailed the ongoing efforts to improve water availability. He said 104 lakes in Kolar and Chickballapur have been filled through the K.C. Valley project, while work is underway to fill another 65 lakes through the H.N. Valley project. “We have decided to fill more than 700 lakes with treated water. Our objective is to recharge groundwater, fill lakes and ensure water reaches farmers,” he explained. The plan involves using treated water to replenish the lakes, which will help revive the groundwater table.
Announcing that more details will be shared with the public, the Chief Minister said, “On August 15, we will announce details of the projects launched by our government with respect to drinking water.” This announcement is expected to outline the government's roadmap for the Yettinahole project and other drinking water initiatives.
He also commended the farmers of Kolar for their perseverance. “Even when the groundwater level receded below 2,000 feet, they did not lose hope or resort to extreme steps. Instead, they produced milk, vegetables, silk and flowers and supplied them to Bengaluru. They demonstrated self-respect and determination,” he said. He described the farmers as a model for others in the state.
The seventh guarantee scheme adds to the Congress government's welfare initiatives. Since coming to power, the government has rolled out several guarantee schemes covering various aspects of daily life, including transport, electricity, and financial assistance for women. Water security is now included, reflecting the government's focus on basic infrastructure.
The completion of the Yettinahole project by 2027 is considered an ambitious target. The project involves complex engineering, including lifting water from the Netravati River and conveying it through tunnels and canals over a long distance. Officials acknowledge the challenges but say the government is determined to deliver on its promise.
