Tensions Rise at PRAWAH Meeting as WRD Minister Subhash Shirodkar Confirms Karnataka’s Objection on Sub-Judice Grounds
At the Mhadei PRAWAH (Progressive River Authority for Welfare and Harmony) meeting held yesterday, Goa reiterated its demand for a joint inspection of the Mhadei river basin, a move aimed at assessing the ongoing water diversion and environmental concerns.
However, the request was firmly opposed by Karnataka, which cited the matter as sub-judice and argued that any joint inspection at this stage would interfere with ongoing legal proceedings.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, Water Resources Minister Subhash Shirodkar confirmed the standoff. “Goa has been consistently asking for a joint inspection to ensure transparency and assess the ground situation. Unfortunately, Karnataka objected, claiming the issue is sub-judice and cannot be addressed at the PRAWAH forum,” Shirodkar said.
The Mhadei river dispute has long been a point of contention between the two states, with Goa accusing Karnataka of unapproved water diversion through its Kalasa-Banduri project, which is feared to impact Goa’s ecological balance and water availability.
While the central authority overseeing the PRAWAH initiative has urged both parties to resolve the issue amicably, Goa officials expressed disappointment over Karnataka’s stance, stating that joint scientific assessments are essential regardless of ongoing court battles.
The stalemate is expected to continue as the matter awaits further legal and political resolution.
