The state cabinet of Karnataka expressed its disappointment over the National Wildlife Board's decision to not clear the Kalasa-Banduri Nala (Mahadayi) drinking water project. In response, the cabinet has decided to hold an all-party meeting to discuss the matter and petition Prime Minister Narendra Modi against what they see as a grave injustice to the people of Karnataka. They have also directed the law department to seek legal counsel on filing a petition in the Supreme Court challenging the NWB's decision. Additionally, the cabinet discussed objections raised by Pramoda Devi Wadiyar regarding the Chamundeshwari Development Authority and clarified that they are within their rights to hold the meeting.
Kalasa-Banduri Dispute: Karnataka Cabinet Expresses Disappointment
Background:
The Kalasa-Banduri Nala is a tributary of the Mahadayi River that flows through the states of Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Goa. Since the 1980s, there has been a dispute over the sharing of water from this river, with Karnataka claiming it requires the water for drinking purposes, while Maharashtra and Goa assert that it is crucial for irrigation.
Cabinet Decision:
On August 6, 2023, the Karnataka state cabinet expressed its disappointment over the National Wildlife Board's (NWB) decision not to clear the Kalasa-Banduri Nala drinking water project. The state government has decided to hold an all-party meeting to discuss the matter and petition Prime Minister Narendra Modi against the decision. They have also instructed the law department to seek legal counsel on filing a petition in the Supreme Court challenging the NWB's decision.
Objections Raised:
In a related development, Pramoda Devi Wadiyar, a member of the erstwhile royal family of Mysuru, has raised objections to a meeting held by the Chamundeshwari Development Authority. The cabinet clarified that the authority has the right to conduct the meeting.
Top 5 FAQs:
Q: Why is Karnataka seeking to divert water from the Kalasa-Banduri Nala? A: Karnataka claims that it requires the water to meet the drinking water needs of its northern districts.
Q: What is the NWB's decision and why has Karnataka taken offense? A: The NWB has refused to clear the Kalasa-Banduri Nala project due to concerns about its impact on the Kali Tiger Reserve. Karnataka sees this as an injustice.
Q: What are the objections raised by Pramoda Devi Wadiyar? A: She has questioned the legitimacy of a meeting held by the Chamundeshwari Development Authority and the legality of its decision-making process.
Q: What is the Karnataka government's next course of action? A: The government will hold an all-party meeting, petition the Prime Minister, and consider legal options.
Q: What are the implications of the NWB decision for Karnataka and its people? A: The decision could delay or even derail the provision of drinking water to the affected districts, potentially impacting the well-being of its residents.
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