Tamil Nadu Minister Aadhav Arjuna supported the State government’s plan to establish a new arbitration panel regarding the Mekedatu dam issue. He expressed concerns that building a new reservoir under the pretext of meeting water needs could lead to legal complications and harm Tamil Nadu’s interests. Arjuna addressed objections from Opposition parties during a Legislative Assembly discussion on opposing the Mekedatu dam project in Karnataka.
The minister clarified that the amendment was necessary due to concerns about the functioning of the Cauvery Management Authority (CMA). He highlighted worries that the proposed dam construction in Karnataka, purportedly for drinking water purposes, could have adverse legal consequences for downstream states. Arjuna criticized the CMA for supporting Karnataka’s efforts by assisting in submitting a Detailed Project Report for the dam.
Arjuna emphasized that legal experts advised the State government to request the formation of a new arbitration body to independently review the dispute. He argued that the current framework was insufficient to address Tamil Nadu’s apprehensions regarding the project. The demand for a new arbitration panel is part of the State’s legal strategy to counter Karnataka’s Mekedatu reservoir construction plans, aiming to present Tamil Nadu’s case effectively and protect its water rights.
The ongoing Mekedatu project dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka continues, with Tamil Nadu opposing the plan, citing concerns about its impact on Cauvery water shares and existing water-sharing agreements.
