In a significant development, the Union Government has returned the proposal submitted by the Government of Karnataka seeking wildlife clearance for the proposed Kalasa-Bhanduri drinking water supply scheme in the Mahadayi river basin. Union Minister for Environment, Forests and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, formally communicated this decision to Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar.

According to the official correspondence, the Union Ministry noted that Karnataka has challenged an order by the Chief Wildlife Warden of Goa before the Supreme Court of India. Since the legal dispute regarding the jurisdiction and the environmental impact is currently being adjudicated, the Center stated that the proposal cannot be processed at this stage and will be considered afresh following future judicial directions.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the Mahadayi basin conflict is a flashpoint for inter-state relations and environmental law. The delay in the Kalasa-Bhanduri project directly impacts the water security of the Belagavi district, specifically the Khanapur taluk. The intersection of state-level developmental needs and federal environmental oversight creates a complex bureaucratic deadlock.

The refusal to grant clearance highlights the growing tension between rapid infrastructure development and strict adherence to judicial mandates in inter-state water disputes.

Responding to the Union Government's move, senior advocate Mohan Katarki, representing Karnataka, expressed surprise at the decision. He argued that the Union government is acknowledging an extra-territorial order from Goa that contradicts the Tribunal's own award. Katarki emphasized that the Goa official's order under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 was beyond their legal jurisdiction, and Karnataka will move the Supreme Court for immediate clarification.

Historical Background

The Mahadayi river dispute has been a long-standing issue involving the states of Karnataka, Goa, and Maharashtra. The Kalasa-Bhanduri project is a critical component of Karnataka's strategy to provide drinking water to drought-prone regions, but it has faced consistent opposition due to ecological concerns and legal challenges regarding water sharing rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why did the Union Government return the proposal?
The government stated that the matter is sub-judice (under judicial consideration) in the Supreme Court, making it inappropriate to decide on the clearance at this time.

2. What is the Kalasa-Bhanduri project?
It is a proposed drinking water supply scheme aimed at providing water to the Belagavi district in Karnataka using the Mahadayi river basin.