The Tamil Nadu Assembly today witnessed a discussion on the proposed Mekedatu dam project in Karnataka, with opposition parties AIADMK, PMK and CPM expressing concern that the project could adversely affect Cauvery water sharing and benefit Karnataka at the cost of Tamil Nadu.
The State Government reiterated its stand against the project and referred to the unanimous resolution passed by the Assembly seeking the formation of a Mekedatu Water Tribunal to safeguard Tamil Nadu’s interests.
Intervening in the debate, Water Resources Minister N. Anand urged the Union Government not to approve the Detailed Project Report for the Mekedatu dam. Public Works Department Minister Adhav Arjuna said the issue, originally concerning farmers, was now being projected as a drinking water project by Karnataka.
During the discussion on the motion of thanks to the Governor’s Address, BJP member Bhojarajan praised the Narendra Modi-led Union Government’s achievements and said PM Modi had sanctioned projects worth thousands of crores of rupees for Tamil Nadu. He also appreciated Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay for taking up the State’s concerns with the Prime Minister.
DMK Whip E.V. Velu urged the Government to increase the ex gratia for families of those killed in yesterday’s ammonia gas leak to ten lakh rupees. The Government also announced the formation of a Hazardous Industries Council. Members across party lines greeted Chief Minister Joseph Vijay on his 53rd birthday.