PM, Water Resources Minister failed to implement the Mekedatu project quickly - CM Siddaramaiah

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has alleged that the Prime Minister and Water Resources Minister have failed to take action for the speedy implementation of the Mekedatu project.

CM Siddaramaiah, who posted a series of posts against the central government on X, said, "Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, who answered our question about the central BJP government's neglect of the Mekedatu project, replied that the proposal of the project was included in the agenda of the meeting.Is it the job of Prime Minister and Minister of Water Resources only to include in the agenda of the meeting? Isn't it the duty of the Prime Minister and Ministers to take action for the speedy implementation of the scheme? Is it wrong if Kannadigas feel that both of them have failed in this work? The Mekedatu Project is a long-term permanent solution to alleviate the plight of the Cauvery basin.I believe that the Narendra Modi-led government will solve the problem of drinking water in Bengaluru and surrounding towns by considering this project with CWMA/CWC and giving necessary permissions and approvals," he said.

Earlier Union Water Resources Minister Shekawat replied to CM Siddaramaiah's previous post and reposted saying, "Dear Shri. @siddaramaiah ,

We know it is tradition for Congress to spread false rumour & misinformation. But it isn’t becoming of a CM to wreak havoc in peoples lives by doing so.

You are very well aware of the status of the Mekedatu project - if not, let us remind you, since your briefing team seems to be doing a sorry job.

Latest status stands this:
Discussion on the DPR of the Mekedatu project was included as an agenda item during various meetings of CWMA.

However, discussion on this issue could not take place due to lack of consensus among party States on this agenda item.

2. The DPRs of Kalasa and Bhandura scheme Nala have already been approved by the Central Water Commission (CWC) with certain conditions and the same has been communicated to Govt of Karnataka.

3. Of the 5 projects from Karnataka prioritised under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)- Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme during 2017-17, THREE stand completed.

Two are ongoing & Rs. 1190.05 cr of the of Rs 1238.30 cr of Central assistance of has already been released to date.

4. Under Atal Bhujal Yojana, Karnataka has already received Rs. 629.54 crore from the Centre but spent only Rs 274.05 cr as on 28.10.2023.

What explains this?".