Union Water Resources and Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari on Thursday informed a delegation from Karnataka that Mahadayi Water Dispute Tribunal’s final order was expected by July end.
When a delegation under the banner of Mahadayi Forum and Sahyadri Water Resources Society met Gadkari to discuss the Mahadayi water dispute and utilisation of its water, the minister said he expected that the final order of the Tribunal would be out likely by July end.
After the meeting, delegation member and former MLC Anna Vinaya Chandra told reporters that since the Tribunal’s term ends on August 21, the government was expecting the final order before that.
The delegation urged Gadkari to take up a massive micro irrigation scheme in Belagavi, Haveri and Hubballi-Dharwad region by supplying Mahadayi river water.
After discussing the blue print of micro irrigation project prepared by the Society, Gadkari directed the Union Water Resources Ministey officials to discuss the issue with Society members and take it forward, Chandra said.
“The project can be implemented by investing around
Rs 9,000 crore and provide water irrigate 4 lakh hectres. Of the total cost, the Central government will have to spend 60% and remaining money will be contribute by the Society,” he said.
“Several companies and organisations have come forward to contribute money to the Society for this project,” he said.
Members of the Society, Shankrappa Ambali and Dr Ranganath were present.