Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, Shivakumar insisted that the project’s scope remains strictly limited to municipal water supply. He noted that a central team has already surveyed the location, and he pledged full cooperation should Tamil Nadu officials choose to conduct their own inspection. The Chief Minister expressed hope that such transparency could de-escalate regional tensions, which have been fueled by recent water shortages in the KRS and Kabini regions.
Beyond the Mekedatu dispute, Shivakumar held wide-ranging discussions with Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil regarding state irrigation projects and outstanding central funding. The talks touched upon the Mahadayi and Upper Krishna projects, with the Centre promising to facilitate meetings between the Chief Ministers of neighboring states to resolve lingering disagreements. Shivakumar expressed frustration over the delay in receiving Rs 5,300 crore allocated for the Upper Bhadra project, noting that funds remain withheld despite repeated assurances from New Delhi.
Domestic challenges also dominated the agenda, as the state faces a severe drought affecting over 200 taluks. Shivakumar confirmed that a central team is scheduled to arrive on October 3 to assess the situation and determine the necessary financial relief. Meanwhile, the Karnataka government is pushing for urban infrastructure improvements in Bengaluru, including the transfer of Defence Department land for green parks, road widening projects, and the construction of a new Skydeck to boost tourism.
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