The Save Mhadei Save Goa Front has raised strong concerns over the proposed diversion of the Mhadei River, warning that it could lead to the desertification of the western Ghats region and the drying up of farmland in the Khanapur area. According to farmers from the region, the diversion would devastate their fields, severely affecting agriculture and local livelihoods.
The group has criticized the Khalsa-Bhandura project, which they believe primarily benefits Karnataka's coal and steel industries, as well as sugarcane plantations. The Karnataka government has been accused of prioritizing industrial interests over environmental and agricultural concerns. Prajal Sakhardande, a member of the Save Mhadei Save Goa Front, stated, "The diversion of Mhadei will result in total destruction of the environment and our natural heritage. Today, even people from Karnataka are joining us in opposing this project."
Sakhardande also urged the government to prove its commitment to promises like 'Har Ghar Nal' (Water to Every Household) by prioritizing the protection of the Mhadei River. He called for collective action to safeguard Mhadei, asserting that the assurances given by the government regarding the project are nothing more than empty promises.