PORVORIM: In the midst of the controversy surrounding the Mhadei water diversion, Goa government made a startling revelation that the Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) was misinformed by Karnataka that part of Mhadei water in Goa’s jurisdiction was going waste.
Karnataka’s untruths have been rubbished by the Goa government that clarified to the MoEF that every drop of Mhadei water is essential for drinking and ‘lift irrigation’ purposes.
“Karnataka had told the MoEF that Mhadei water was flowing downstream into Mandovi River. I have explained to the MoEF that water is not going waste and we are using it for lift irrigation and drinking purposes. Water is not flowing into Mandovi River,” Chief Minister Pramod Sawant told the House during a reply on the Motion of Thanks to the address of Governor Satya Pal Malik.
He further emphasised that the government has sent a clear message to the Centre that it is serious on the issue and diversion of water will not be allowed. Goa has also conveyed to the Central government that the Mhadei water flow is important due to the existence of the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary.
While conceding that Karnataka has diverted some percentage of the Mhadei water into its territory impacting the flow into Goa, Sawant assured the Members of the Legislative Assembly that he has been pursuing the matter with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for a solution in Goa’s favour. “I have personally written to PM on this issue and following up with him as well as the Home Minister. We will not compromise on Mhadei water,” he said reiterating that government has taken several steps to get justice for Goa.
The CM also informed the House that the Water Resources Minister has submitted a proposal for a Task Force that will monitor every move by Karnataka along the site. Sawant has also suggested a joint inspection by all party leaders.
Referring to remarks made by some Opposition legislators questioning the government’s seriousness on Mhadei, the CM brought to the notice of the House that Karnataka resorted to illegal construction from Kankumbi to Malprabha basin between 2008 and 2012. Incidentally, a Congress-led government was then holding the reins of the State.
On apprehensions raised by MLA Ramkrishna (Sudin) Dhavalikar that Karnataka will divert 56 per cent of water in the next three years, CM replied that government will not give them (Karnataka) any chance.
Earlier, during the discussion, Leader of Opposition Digambar Kamat extended his party’s support to the government to resolve the crisis while insisting on a one-day session on Mhadei. “We all want that the letter to Karnataka by MoEF should be withdrawn. I have been asking for a one-day session on Mhadei and it is still not late. This session will strengthen CM’s hands that entire Goa is unanimous on Mhadei. CM should lead all-party delegation to PM,” he said.
