Slugfest Over Release of Krishna Water to Telangana

Slugfest erupted in Yadgiri district over the alleged release of Krishna River water from the Basavasagara (Narayanapura) reservoir to Telangana.

- HT Correspondent

BENGALURU: The BJP alleged that 1.24 TMC of water was released in the last two days without approval from the irrigation advisory committee, sparking outrage among local farmers. However, Minister of Water Resources DK Shivakumar dismissed fears of drinking water shortages.

Farmers in the Krishna basin, who are already facing concerns over water shortages, have cited their fear the situation will worsen as summer progresses. Many worry about a looming drinking water crisis in Yadgiri and Raichuru districts and have accused the Karnataka government and the irrigation department of prioritizing Telangana's needs over local farmers.

BJP leader Raju Gowda strongly criticized the government's actions, calling it a betrayal of Karnataka's farmers. "1.2 TMC of Krishna River water has already been released. Releasing even one cusec requires approval from the CM, Irrigation Minister, or the Advisory Committee. However, water was released without any official order, only on verbal instructions," he said.