The Mekedatu dam project is a significant multi-purpose initiative designed to enhance water supply and power generation in Karnataka. Located near Kanakapura, the project aims to construct a balancing reservoir to support the growing water needs of Bengaluru.
This ambitious project is expected to provide over 4 TMC (thousand million cubic feet) of drinking water to the residents of Bengaluru, addressing the city's increasing demand for clean water.
The estimated cost of the Mekedatu dam project is around Rs 14,000 crore, covering an area of over 5,000 hectares. This substantial investment highlights the project's importance to the region.
The project has garnered support from all major political parties in Karnataka, including the Congress, BJP, and JDS. This bipartisan backing reflects the project's significance in addressing the state's water and power needs.
Despite the support in Karnataka, the Mekedatu dam project faces opposition from Tamil Nadu. The state argues that the dam could potentially reduce the water flow into its territories, impacting farmers and agricultural activities.
As of now, the Mekedatu dam project is pending necessary clearances from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, as well as the Central Water Commission. The Karnataka government is actively awaiting these approvals to proceed with land acquisition and construction.
The project aims to provide clean drinking water not only to Bengaluru but also to other areas in Karnataka. Additionally, it seeks to manage surplus water flows between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, especially during distress years when water is scarce.
Tamil Nadu's main concern revolves around the potential diversion of water from various sub-basins, which could diminish the water available for its agricultural needs. This has raised significant apprehensions among farmers in the state.
Currently, construction has yet to begin, as the project is still waiting on final clearances from the relevant Union ministries. The timeline for construction remains uncertain until these approvals are secured.
The Karnataka government has taken proactive steps by submitting a detailed project report to the Union government. Additionally, it has allocated Rs 1,000 crore for the project in the state budget, demonstrating its commitment to advancing this vital initiative.
Q1. What is the Mekedatu dam project about?
Answer: The Mekedatu dam project is a multi-purpose initiative designed to provide drinking water to Bengaluru and generate power through a reservoir near Kanakapura, Karnataka.
Q2. Why does Tamil Nadu oppose the Mekedatu dam project?
Answer: Tamil Nadu opposes the project due to concerns that it could reduce water flow into the state, adversely affecting farmers and agricultural needs.
Q3. What is the current status of the Mekedatu dam project?
Answer: The project is awaiting clearances from the Union Ministry of Environment and the Central Water Commission, with construction yet to begin.
Q4. How much water will the Mekedatu dam provide to Bengaluru?
Answer: The dam is expected to supply over 4 TMC of water for drinking purposes to Bengaluru, addressing the city's water scarcity issues.
Q5. What steps has the Karnataka government taken regarding the project?
Answer: The Karnataka government has submitted a detailed project report and allocated Rs 1,000 crore in the state budget to facilitate the Mekedatu dam project.
Question 1: What is the primary purpose of the Mekedatu dam project?
A) Flood control
B) Drinking water supply and power generation
C) Irrigation
D) Industrial water supply
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which political parties support the Mekedatu dam project in Karnataka?
A) Only Congress
B) Only BJP
C) Congress, BJP, and JDS
D) No political support
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: How much is the estimated cost of the Mekedatu dam project?
A) Rs 5,000 crore
B) Rs 10,000 crore
C) Rs 14,000 crore
D) Rs 20,000 crore
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: What is Tamil Nadu's main concern regarding the Mekedatu dam project?
A) Increased tourism
B) Water diversion affecting agriculture
C) Energy generation
D) Environmental impact
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What has the Karnataka government allocated for the Mekedatu project in the state budget?
A) Rs 500 crore
B) Rs 1,000 crore
C) Rs 2,000 crore
D) Rs 3,000 crore
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: What is the expected water supply from the Mekedatu dam to Bengaluru?
A) 2 TMC
B) 3 TMC
C) 4 TMC
D) 5 TMC
Correct Answer: C
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