कर्नाटक ने चल रहे कावेरी जल विवाद के बीच मेकेदाटु बांध का प्रस्ताव रखा

Karnataka has proposed the construction of the Mekedatu dam across the Cauvery River, aiming to provide drinking water to Bengaluru and generate 400 MW of hydroelectric power. This move has sparked controversy with Tamil Nadu, which fears reduced downstream water flow amid ongoing water-sharing disputes. Last Updated: 2025-11-25

Key Facts About Mekedatu Dam Proposal

• Karnataka plans to submit a proposal for the Mekedatu dam.
• The dam will be located near Kanakapura.
• It aims to provide drinking water to Bengaluru and generate 400 MW of hydroelectric power.
• Tamil Nadu opposes the project, citing water flow concerns.
• The Cauvery River dispute involves Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry.
• The dispute dates back over 150 years.
• Historical agreements in 1892 and 1924 are key to the conflict.
• The Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal was established in 1990.

India's Water Resource Management Challenges

The proposal for the Mekedatu dam highlights the ongoing challenges in India's water resource management, particularly in inter-state river disputes. The Cauvery River dispute is a significant example of the complexities involved in equitable water distribution among states, impacting agricultural productivity and regional stability. India's water management strategies are crucial for achieving sustainable development goals and ensuring water security for its growing population.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

• Cauvery Water Management Authority: Ensures compliance with the tribunal's award.
• National Water Mission: Aims to conserve water, minimize wastage, and ensure more equitable distribution.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 1: Geography - Water resources, Inter-state river disputes
• GS Paper 2: Polity - Inter-state relations, Federalism
• GS Paper 3: Environment - Sustainable development, Water conservation
• Prelims Angle: Questions on historical agreements, tribunal establishment, and key figures
• Mains Angle: Analytical themes on inter-state water disputes, federalism, and environmental impacts

FAQ Section

• What is the Mekedatu dam? The Mekedatu dam is a proposed project by Karnataka across the Cauvery River, aimed at providing drinking water to Bengaluru and generating 400 MW of hydroelectric power.
• Why is the Mekedatu dam important? It is crucial for addressing Bengaluru's water needs and enhancing Karnataka's power generation capacity, but it also raises significant inter-state water sharing concerns.
• What are the key features of the Mekedatu dam proposal? The dam is planned near Kanakapura, with a capacity to generate 400 MW of power, and aims to improve water supply to Bengaluru, amidst opposition from Tamil Nadu.