Karnataka to Challenge CWRC Order on Cauvery Water Release, Cites Deficit Rainfall
Karnataka has decided to file an appeal before the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) against a recent directive from the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) to release water to Tamil Nadu. The CWRC order, issued on Tuesday, requires Karnataka to release 3,500 cusecs of water per day for 15 days.
Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced the decision on Wednesday in New Delhi, stating that preparations for the appeal are underway. He noted that consultations have been held with the state's Advocate General, legal experts, and officials. The move comes in response to what the Chief Minister described as deficit rainfall in Karnataka.
“The rain god has not been kind to us this time. Earlier, the CWRC had rejected Tamil Nadu’s request for the release of Cauvery water on two occasions. However, this time it has directed Karnataka to release water. We have discussed the legal options with Water Resources Minister Ramalinga Reddy and the officials concerned,” Shivakumar said.
He added that he would also consult with opposition leaders after returning to Bengaluru.
In a related development, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay has expressed a desire to meet Shivakumar. Vijay wrote to the Karnataka Chief Secretary and spoke to Shivakumar over the phone. Shivakumar confirmed that he has invited Vijay to Bengaluru. “I have extended him the respect he deserves and invited him to the meeting. It is our duty to receive guests visiting our state with due courtesy, and all necessary arrangements have been made to receive him,” Shivakumar said.
Shivakumar further stated, “We have requested Mr. Vijay to personally assess the situation in the Cauvery basin of Karnataka that is reeling under drought. I have also informed him that the government will make the necessary arrangements for his aerial visit. He should witness the ground realities himself. Let us see what decision he takes.”
The Cauvery water dispute is a long-standing issue between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, with both states relying on the river for irrigation and drinking water. The CWRC's order aims to ensure a minimum flow of water to Tamil Nadu, but Karnataka has argued that its reservoirs are insufficient due to poor monsoon rainfall.
