Centre Removes Karnataka Mahadayi Project From Pending List

The Union government has removed the Banduri Nala diversion project in the Mahadayi river basin from the online list of pending clearances on the Forest Ministry website.

Project Details

This removal from the PARIVESH portal of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change happened because the Karnataka government delayed answering questions from a central team. The Karnataka Neeravari Nigam Limited had asked for clearance to use 71 acres of forest land in Khanapur of Belagavi district to build pipelines, a pumphouse, and powerlines.

Background

Farmers met in Khanapur in April 2025 to oppose this land takeover after getting notices. Ministry officials visited the area twice and sent a notice to the State's Congress government in July 2026, but did not get a proper reply on time. Officials also stated that the final choice will wait for a Supreme Court ruling on the inter-State river water dispute.

Reactions

This plan is the first part of Mahadayi basin diversion works meant to supply drinking water to Hubballi-Dharwad, Gadag, and nearby villages, while the Kalasa Nala project proposal has not been submitted yet. Goa Water Resources Development Minister Subhash Shirodkar stated that the Union government withdrew the clearance, calling it a win for Goa that helps its Supreme Court case against the diversion works.

Context

Inter-State river water disputes in India often involve legal battles between neighboring states over shared natural resources. Clearances for forest land use require strict compliance with central environmental guidelines and approvals from various government bodies.