Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday led an all-party delegation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking the Centre’s “cooperation” for implementing the Mekedatu Hydroelectric Project across the Cauvery in the State, which is being opposed by Tamil Nadu.
The project is expected to generate electric power (400 MW) and store drinking water needed for Bengaluru city. “No irrigation is contemplated under the project as alleged by Tamil Nadu,” a memorandum said.
“The State has planned to implement the Shivasamudram and Mekadatu projects on its own. At present, the preparation of detailed project report on Shivasamudram has been undertaken,” it said.
Mr. Siddaramaiah explained the project to Mr. Modi and sought his cooperation in conducting technical studies of the Mekadatu project and giving appropriate sanctions whenever the State government approaches the Centre with details, after the preparation of a final project report.
He termed Tamil Nadu’s opposition to the project as “politically motivated”, and said interests of the neighbouring State would not be affected by the project.
