Maha supports K'taka on Mhadei water diversion
Goa maintains diversion of any water would deplete biodiversity
THE GOAN NETWORK
PANAJI
The state of Maharashtra in its response to the Mhadei Water Dispute Tribunal lent support to Karnataka’s claim for diversion of 7 TMC from the water basin. Maharashtra in an affidavit filed before the tribunal sided with Karnataka in providing interim relief by diverting 7 TMC of water from the Mhadei water basin to the Malaprabha basin.
The state of Karnataka in its claim of water from the basin has said the request for 7.56 TMC is to fulfill drinking water needs of the areas of Hubli and Dharwad. Maharashtra in its list of reliefs sought has asked for allocation of 6.36 TMC including distribution of power generated from the Kali Hydro Power Project in the state.
Goa has since the beginning of proceedings at the tribunal insisted that diversion of any water would result in depletion of biodiversity of the area. The contention has also been that the availability of water in the basin itself is not accurate. Initial reports have suggested a 210 TMC, but a newer one, undertaken by Goa sets the figure at 145 TMC.
This report headed by IIT professor V Jothiprakash is currently under scrutiny by the tribunal. Cross questioning of the professor was undertaken last month and will continue from June 13. The next case hearing will be on July 12.
