Karnataka CM Dikshit Asserts Mekedatu Project for Bangalore Water Supply, Rules Out Irrigation Use

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has firmly stated that the Mekedatu project will be used exclusively for Bangalore's drinking water supply, with no water diverted for irrigation purposes. Speaking to media after Legislative Council elections voting at the state assembly on June 18, 2026, Siddaramaiah emphasised that the balanced water management approach respects Tamil Nadu farmers' interests while addressing Karnataka's critical water shortage. The Chief Minister explained that Bangalore's growing population makes the Krishna river an impractical alternative, leaving the Cauvery as the only viable option for the city's water security.

Addressing concerns that the Tamil Nadu government is seeking legal grounds to block the Mekedatu project, Siddaramaiah clarified that the scheme actually benefits Tamil Nadu more than Karnataka. He noted that Karnataka has agreed to release 177 TMC (Thousand Million Cubic feet) of water to Tamil Nadu's share, with the Supreme Court having issued directives on the matter. The Chief Minister stated that the Central Water Commission should make the final determination on the project, referencing existing court orders. He also noted that the project will generate 400 MW of electricity, providing additional energy benefits to Karnataka's power sector.

Regarding appeals to Prime Minister Modi to cancel the project, Siddaramaiah rejected suggestions that Tamil Nadu's political opposition should influence his position. He asserted that Tamil Nadu has pursued a political agenda for 40 years and that he will not interfere in their politics. The CM highlighted that Tamil Nadu has built substantial dams in lower reaches without Karnataka's objection, and noted that over 400 TMC of excess water flowed to the sea last year. He expressed willingness to discuss the matter with Tamil Nadu at any time, emphasising that people from both states work and live across borders, and should not be treated as separate entities.

On the Mekedatu issue, Siddaramaiah stated, "This is not merely close to my heart—the Mekedatu project will benefit Tamil Nadu more than Karnataka state." He expressed confidence that balanced water management would help Tamil Nadu access its share of water during difficult times and that the project could be completed at minimal cost. The Chief Minister stressed that this is not a political matter but rather an effort to protect the interests of both states' people.

Siddaramaiah also addressed recent Legislative Council elections, dismissing allegations of political manipulation. He stated that no cross-voting strategy was employed and that legislators exercised their free will in voting. He acknowledged that some new legislators and cross-voting issues may have occurred, noting that approximately 7,000-8,000 votes are typically rejected in teacher and graduate constituency elections due to preference voting complexities. The Chief Minister reiterated that he is Chief Minister to all 224 state legislators regardless of party affiliation, and expressed confidence that all parliamentary members from Karnataka would unite in defending the state's interests on water-sharing matters.