Congress legislator Ivan D’Souza criticized the Karnataka government in the Legislative Council for the massive delays and spiraling costs of the Yettinahole Integrated Drinking Water Supply Project.
- The Yettinahole project has faced delays for over 12 years.
- Project costs have escalated from ₹8,323 crore to an estimated ₹30,000 crore.
- The government aims for completion by the end of 2027.
In a heated session in the Legislative Council, ruling Congress member Ivan D’Souza raised a strong objection regarding the prolonged delays in the Yettinahole Integrated Drinking Water Supply Project. D’Souza criticized the government and officials, stating that the failure to complete the project even after 12 years is a clear sign of administrative irresponsibility.
The project, approved in July 2012, is designed to divert 24.01 TMCF of water from streams flowing west of the Sakleshpur area to supply drinking water to drought-prone districts such as Kolar and Chickballapur. D’Souza highlighted the massive financial burden caused by the delay.
Escalating Project Costs: A Timeline
| Year | Estimated Cost (in ₹ Crores) |
|---|---|
| 2012 (Initial) | ₹8,323.50 |
| 2014 | ₹12,912.36 |
| 2023 | ₹23,251.66 |
| Current Estimate | ~₹30,000 |
D’Souza pointed out that while the budget has ballooned, not a single drop of water has reached its intended destination. He emphasized that the lack of coordination between planning, land acquisition, financing, and the implementation of the canal network has resulted in massive expenditure without actual benefits.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that projects of this magnitude are critical for regional stability and preventing humanitarian crises caused by drought. The inability to synchronize departmental clearances and land acquisition processes not only wastes taxpayer money but also prolongs the suffering of millions in water-stressed regions.
The exponential rise in project costs and the failure to meet deadlines indicate a systemic breakdown in project management.
Responding to the allegations, House leader Yathindra Siddaramaiah, representing the Water Resources Minister, stated that the project is being executed in 54 different packages. He noted that 20 packages have been completed, while others are in various stages of progress.
Siddaramaiah attributed the delays to various external factors, including obtaining Forest Clearances, National Green Tribunal (NGT) approvals, National Highways clearances, and Railway Department permissions. He assured the house that land acquisition is being handled via tripartite agreements with farmers and that the project will be prioritized for completion by the end of 2027.
Historical Background
The Yettinahole project has been a centerpiece of Karnataka's water management strategy for over a decade. Intended to divert water from the western flowing rivers to the eastern drought-hit plains, it has been mired in legal battles, environmental concerns, and inter-departmental hurdles since its inception.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the main objective of the Yettinahole project?
To divert water from western-flowing streams to provide drinking water to drought-prone areas like Kolar and Chickballapur.
2. Why has the project been delayed?
The government cites delays in forest clearances, NGT approvals, and land acquisition processes as the primary reasons.
