Karnataka government ready to talk with Tamil Nadu over disputed Mekedatu reservoir. On June 20, Major Irrigation Minister Ramalinga Reddy said Karnataka open for negotiations if Tamil Nadu willing.
Reddy assured reservoir won't cut into Tamil Nadu's water share from Cauvery River . He claimed it would improve flow management,better distribution downstream. "We're open to talks. Our Chief Minister clear on this — Karnataka ready if Tamil Nadu shows interest," he said.
Invitation comes with political tension over project. Just day before,June 19, Tamil Nadu Assembly,led by Chief Minister C . Joseph Vijay, passed resolution against Karnataka's Mekedatu plans,adding heat to discussions.
On legal front,Reddy mentioned Supreme Court threw out Tamil Nadu's objections. Another petition from Tamil Nadu also rejected, bolstering Karnataka's stance . "Karnataka cleared legal hurdles," Reddy noted,adding project plan already sent to Central Water Commission for review.
Mekedatu project aims to meet Bengaluru's water needs,regulate distribution to Tamil Nadu at Biligundlu,generate 400 megawatts of hydroelectric power. It plans to allocate 4.75 TMC ft for Bengaluru's drinking water .
Back in 2018,Tamil Nadu asked Supreme Court about Karnataka's authority on project. But November 13, 2025 ruling said Central Water Commission and Cauvery Water Management Authority should handle proposals. Verdict made clear states can't upset each other's water quotas without causing harm.
Reddy emphasized Karnataka's adherence to Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal's ruling,as adjusted by Supreme Court in 2018,ensuring 177.25 TMC ft to Tamil Nadu each normal year. "The 177.25 TMC ft for Tamil Nadu is secure," he insisted.
Reaffirming Mekedatu project follows legal frameworks,Reddy hopeful for resolution He urged Central Government and Central Water Commission to speed up project review,arguing it meets development and water needs…
