Tamil Nadu opposes Centre's new rules for Cauvery basin projects

The Tamil Nadu government has raised strong objections to the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Central Water Commission's latest guidelines for appraising water resources projects in the Cauvery basin. Water Resources Minister N. Anand told the state Assembly on Monday that the guidelines were framed 'unilaterally' by the Centre in December last year.

The guidelines have gained significance amid the ongoing dispute over Karnataka's proposed Mekedatu drinking water-cum-balancing reservoir project. Tamil Nadu argues that the Cauvery basin is a water-deficit basin, as stated in the final award of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) and upheld by the Supreme Court in its February 2018 judgment. A water expert questioned the need for any new projects in a deficit basin, regardless of purpose or size.

State officials confirmed that the government has conveyed its objections to the Centre, but the Union government has defended the guidelines. One key provision allows for 'presumptive concurrence' with the CWC's stance if the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) fails to convey its views within six months or returns a project proposal without commenting on its conformity with the CWDT award. In case of conflict between CWMA and CWC views, the CWMA's position will prevail. Tamil Nadu fears this provision could be used against its interests.

Under the new rules, detailed project reports for medium and major irrigation, multi-purpose, drinking water, and industrial use projects must be submitted to the CWC. After examining the reports, including inter-State issues, the CWC will forward them to the CWMA for comments.

Meanwhile, the CWMA held a meeting to assess the current water situation and flows in the Cauvery basin.