BELAGAVI: The local administration has beefed up security following a stern warning issued by the Goa government against possible demolition of sealing structures constructed at Kalsa nala, part of Kalsa-Banduri project at Kankumbi near Belagavi.
Deputy commissioner N Jairam confirmed to Deccan Chronicle that the authorities concerned would do everything to prevent those agitating for completion of Kalasa-Banduri project from breaking down sealing structures, and said security measures would be taken to safeguard them following orders of Mahadayi Water Tribunal. “Whether the Goa government asks us to take measures or not, the district administration will never allow anybody to violate the Tribunal’s orders,” he added.
In his recent letter to the state government, additional chief engineer, water resources department of Goa, P J Kamat sought the state government’s intervention in connection with the plans being made by several self-styled leaders in Karnataka to demolish the channel sealing structures constructed by Karnataka Neeravari Nigam Limited (KNNL) at Kalsa nala. These structures, to stop the flow of water from Goa's Mandovi river into Malaprabha through Kalsa nala, were constructed on the orders of Mahadayi Water Dispute Tribunal (orders dated 17/4/2014). Any unilateral interference with the said sealing structures shall be a blatant contempt of the Tribunal's order by the state of Karnataka,” Mr Kamat stated in his letter.
The state government's failure to take action in this instance could force Goa to file a contempt petition before the Tribunal or any other court.
The tribunal has directed the chief engineers of Karnataka, Goa and Maharashtra in 2014 to take measures to seal the flow of water from Kalsa nala into Malaprabha, the letter adds.
