New Delhi, Jan 8: Deputy Chief Minister and Irrigation Minister DK Shivakumar today held discussion with the Union Minister of State for Water Resources and Railways V Somanna on funds allocation for Upper Bhadra project and Tamil Nadu’s objection to the proposed dam in the Pennar river basin.
Speaking to reporters after meeting the Union Minister, he said, “There is news that the promised allocation of Rs 5300 crore for the Upper Bhadra project may be cut down. We don’t have much information on that. We are told that the funds will be released.”
“Tamil Nadu has filed an affidavit on Jan 2 regarding Pennar river water sharing. We were supposed to file our affidavit within three weeks but it was delayed due to the winter session. We have sought an extension. We have been told that a date will be finalised for a discussion between the representatives of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The Supreme has asked the two states to resolve the issues through dialogues,” he added.
“The proposed dam across Markendeya river, a tributary of Pennar river, would not affect Tamil Nadu in any way. They are aware of the water scarcity in Kolar district. The Centre has expressed appreciation for the supply of treated water for Kolar district from Vrushabhavathi and KC Valley.
“It would be a long-drawn and expensive affair if we take the legal route, hence we are considering resolving the issue through dialogue between the two governments. The Forest Department has said it would give its approval. I tried meeting Union Minister Pralhad Joshi to discuss this but he wasn’t available. I briefed Somanna on the irrigation works of the state,” he said.
Asked if the Mekedatu project was discussed, he said, ‘I can’t disclose any information on that.”
Pyari Didi scheme
Asked about promising Rs 2,500 per month under Pyari Didi as compared to Rs 2000 in Karnataka, he said, “The cost of living is different for the two states.”
Asked about Home Minister Parameshwara calling for a meeting to discuss the growing trend of dinner meet politics, he said, “I was travelling abroad and I don’t have information on that.”
Asked about Kumaraswamy’s allegations of 60% commission, he said, “We will talk about what is there in Kumaraswamy’s safe some other time.”
Asked about Kumaraswamy’s statement that he was aware of who was behind tagging his name in the Aishwarya Gowda cheating case, he said, “I don’t know who Aishwarya Gowda is and I don’t want to talk about something I don’t know about. I am yet to meet my brother. I have just read about it in the media.
