Experts Warn Mahadayi River Diversion Could Lead to Ecological Crisis in North Karnataka
Mahadayi diversion may spur eco crisis & desertification, warn experts
The Times Of IndiaImage: The Times Of India
A new report warns that diverting water from the Mahadayi River for the Kalasa–Banduri project could cause severe ecological damage to the Western Ghats, affecting biodiversity and water security in North Karnataka. The study highlights the risks of desertification and suggests alternative water management strategies.
- 01The report indicates that nearly 500 sq km of ecologically sensitive forest could be impacted by the diversion.
- 02Current water demand is linked to a rise in sugarcane cultivation from 25,000 hectares in 2005 to an expected 96,000 hectares by 2025.
- 03Sugarcane cultivation consumes an estimated 140 tmc ft of water annually, exacerbating local water stress.
- 04The Navilutheertha dam has lost 12 tmcft of its original capacity due to siltation, reducing effective storage to 25 tmcft.
- 05Experts recommend desilting the dam and promoting drip irrigation as alternatives to large-scale river diversion.
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A comprehensive study conducted by a panel of experts has raised alarms about the potential ecological crisis that could arise from the proposed diversion of the Mahadayi River waters for the Kalasa–Banduri Nala project. The report warns that such a diversion could disrupt the hydrological balance of the Western Ghats, impacting nearly 500 sq km of sensitive forest and threatening biodiversity, rainfall patterns, and water security in North Karnataka. The Kalasa–Banduri project, aimed at supplying water to drought-prone areas, has been in the pipeline for nearly three decades but has faced restrictions from the Mahadayi Water Disputes Tribunal. The study highlights the increasing water demands driven by a surge in sugarcane cultivation, which is projected to expand from 25,000 hectares in 2005 to 96,000 hectares by 2025, consuming approximately 140 tmc ft of water annually. Additionally, the Navilutheertha dam has suffered significant siltation, losing 12 tmcft of its original capacity. The experts advocate for alternative measures, such as desilting the dam and improving irrigation practices, to enhance water availability without compromising the ecological integrity of the region.
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The diversion of the Mahadayi River could lead to severe ecological consequences, including desertification and loss of biodiversity, affecting local farmers and communities reliant on water resources.
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