KA to Take Andhra’s Objections to Centre

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar said the state will raise Andhra Pradesh’s objections to the third phase of the Upper Krishna Project (UKP) with the Central government. A meeting with Karnataka MPs will be held on March 17 at Karnataka Bhavan in New Delhi to discuss the issue and decide the next course of action.

Shivakumar said Andhra Pradesh has written to the Centre opposing the implementation of the project and the related land acquisition process. Karnataka, however, maintains that the project is being carried out as per the tribunal’s order to utilize its rightful share of water, with works worth nearly ₹26,000 crore already underway.

The Deputy CM also alleged that nearly 30 TMC of water meant for Karnataka is being wasted from the Tungabhadra dam due to lack of cooperation from Andhra Pradesh. He said Karnataka ministers will meet MPs and press the Centre to support the state’s stand on the project.