Karnataka: Rs 1,281-crore irrigation project sanctioned under BJP govt, says MLC CT Ravi

Chikkamagaluru: The Rs 1,281-crore irrigation project to fill 245 lakes across Tarikere, Kadur and Chikkamagaluru taluks with water from the Bhadra sub-basin was sanctioned during the BJP government, MLC and BJP leader Dr C T Ravi said.

Speaking after offering bagina to Belavadi lake, Ravi said expressing gratitude to water sources was an integral part of Indian tradition. He added that while he normally avoids politics at religious events, truth must be spoken when falsehood gains ground.

Ravi said earlier attempts to bring water through the Karagada project using gravity had failed. Pumps and motors were subsequently used to fill several lakes, but a permanent solution was needed. The government therefore pursued an irrigation project drawing water from the Bhadra river, he said.

Ravi said he had discussed the proposal with then chief minister B S Yediyurappa and sought its approval. Despite financial difficulties caused by Covid-19, Yediyurappa directed officials to proceed with the project, he claimed.

The project was approved in November 2020. Of the total allocation, Rs 406.50 crore was earmarked for the first phase, Rs 298.60 crore for the second, Rs 476.70 crore for the third and Rs 100 crore for the fourth. The first two phases have been completed, while the third is under way.

Ravi also said Belavadi lake was later included in the Ranaghatta project, for which administrative approval worth Rs 125.46 crore was secured.

He urged the government to release pending pensions and address rural power supply, BPL card and rice distribution issues.