Take steps to store surplus Cauvery water: Farmers

IN the wake of Karnataka completing a survey for the Mekedatu Dam project and alleged initiation of land acquisition for the same, farmers in the Cauvery delta districts have urged the state government to oppose the neighbouring state's move, citing threats to their livelihood.

- EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE @Tiruchy

The farmers point out that as per the Cauvery Water Management Authority and Supreme Court's final verdict, Karnataka must release 177.25 TMC of water to TN annually. Regardless of who holds the Chief Minister's post in Karnataka, they claim to be strictly adhering to the directives. However, with no adequate infrastructure, Tamil Nadu is unable to store the water released by Karnataka into the Cauvery, and it flows into the Bay of Bengal, they said.