Karnataka government considering harnessing floodwaters from Netravati

Aim is to cater to drinking water needs of Bengaluru, Mangaluru

Around 240 tmcft of water from the Netravati flows into the Arabian Sea every year, according to a feasibility report prepared by IISc.

The Karnataka government is seriously considering the option of getting floodwaters from the Netravati to cater to the drinking water needs of Bengaluru and Mangaluru.

Bengaluru Development Minister K.J. George and Minister for Urban Development R. Roshan Baig on Wednesday held a meeting to discuss the feasibility report prepared by Indian Institute of Science (IISc.) on harnessing floodwaters from Netravati. The report is prepared by scientists led by T.G. Seetharam. Top officials from Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) participated in the discussion.

Mr. George told presspersons that after a consultation with stakeholders, the detail project report (DPR) would be finalised and sent to the Cabinet for approval. The approximate cost of the project would be ₹2,500 crore. A complete picture of the project would be available after the DPR is prepared.

The feasibility report suggests construction of a reservoir in Mangaluru to impound floodwaters and make the water available for drinking purpose after treatment. Around 240 tmcft of water from the river flows into the Arabian Sea every year. It could be possible to store an average of 24 tmcft of water required for Bengaluru city and 2.1 tmcft for Mangaluru city, the Minister said. These kind of projects were successfully being implemented in seven countries, including Hongkong, he said. According to the report, it is possible to prevent erosion, address ecological concerns, besides displacement of people. The government was seriously considering this project to provide a permanent solution to drinking water shortage of growing Bengaluru, Mr. George said.

In view of opposition from people in coastal Karnataka for harnessing water from west-flowing rivers and streams, including Yettinahole, all communities would be taken into confidence before implementing this project, the Minister said.

Garbage clearance

On issue of garbage disposal in Bengaluru, Mr. George said sub-contractors were protesting against the ₹ 200 crore service tax. The problem would be addressed at the earliest, as the BBMP Commissioner was holding talks with them, he said. The idea of providing compactor and garbage collection autos was dropped following opposition from sub-contractors, he added.