Karnataka DCM Announces Rs 1,500 Crore for Repair of 58 Dams, Calls for Relaxation of 500-Metre Rule to Boost Tourism
Bengaluru: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Thursday said the State government is ready to implement the Mekedatu and Upper Krishna projects once it receives the necessary approvals from the Centre.
Speaking at the inauguration of the International Conference on Dam Safety at the Indian Institute of Science, the Deputy Chief Minister, who also holds the Irrigation portfolio, expressed confidence that the Union government would grant the required clearances.
“We will execute Mekedatu and Upper Krishna projects if the Centre gives approvals. We are confident that the Centre would give the necessary approvals,” Shivakumar said.
The conference was held at the Indian Institute of Science.
Mekedatu Project to Address Bengaluru’s Water Needs
Shivakumar said the proposed balancing reservoir at Mekedatu is essential to meet the growing water demands of Bengaluru, whose population has reached nearly 1.5 crore and is expected to increase further.
“The world is looking at India through Bengaluru. Industrialists from around the world are focusing on Bengaluru. We have the responsibility of providing water to the growing population of the city,” he said.
Referring to the Mekedatu project, he stated that the Supreme Court had delivered a favourable judgment but the State is awaiting approval from the Centre. The project is expected to generate 400 MW of electricity in addition to addressing future water requirements.
On the Upper Krishna Project, he said the government has introduced a transparent compensation policy for landowners in line with the 2013 Land Acquisition Act.
Call to Relax 500-Metre Dam Restriction
The Deputy Chief Minister also called for relaxation of the existing 500-metre restriction on commercial activities near dams, arguing that it would help promote tourism and strengthen local economies.
“The dams currently have a 500-meter restriction for commercial activities, but it needs to be relaxed to promote tourism. It would help the local economy,” he said.
Dams Symbolise Nation’s Progress and Strength
Highlighting the importance of water infrastructure, Shivakumar said dams are a symbol of the nation’s strength and progress, empowering farmers and generating clean energy.
He noted that India has around 6,500 dams, the third highest in the world, while Karnataka has 232 dams. Two-thirds of India’s dams are over 25 years old, requiring enhanced focus on safety and maintenance.
The State government has allocated Rs 1,500 crore for the repair and maintenance of 58 dams in Karnataka.
He also referred to the Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project, supported by the World Bank, which is assisting in strengthening dam safety mechanisms.
Karnataka to Become a Role Model in Dam Safety
Shivakumar said Karnataka aims to become a role model in dam safety practices, particularly in the context of climate change, unpredictable rainfall and increasing flood risks.
He credited former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru for envisioning dams as the “temples of modern India,” remarking their role in ensuring food, energy and social security.
He also highlighted Karnataka’s legacy in water resource development, noting that Asia’s first hydroelectric project was launched at Shivanasamudra Hydroelectric Power Station in 1902.
On the Other hand, environmental activists have consistently raised concerns over ecological impact, inter-state water disputes and displacement issues related to large irrigation and dam projects, urging careful evaluation before granting final clearances.
