Karnataka Releases Cauvery Water as Tensions Persist Between States

Karnataka has begun releasing Cauvery water from the Kabini reservoir, with flows expected to reach Tamil Nadu's Mettur Dam by Monday night or Tuesday. Water Resources Department officials reported that discharge from the Kabini Dam reached 25,000 cusecs by Saturday night, though the dry riverbed has slowed the downstream movement. Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar stated that the water situation has improved slightly due to recent rains, noting that the Kabini reservoir is now full. He clarified that limited water is being released through canals for drinking water purposes rather than irrigation.

The water release follows a directive from the Cauvery Water Management Authority for Karnataka to release 3,500 cubic metres daily to Tamil Nadu for 15 days. While Chief Minister Shivakumar emphasized that Karnataka will respect the law and Supreme Court orders, the situation remains tense. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay postponed a planned visit to Bengaluru at the request of the Karnataka government to maintain a peaceful atmosphere. Simultaneously, Tamil Nadu officials indicated that the state would move the Supreme Court for an immediate solution to the water sharing dispute.

Within Karnataka, the water release has sparked protests. Chief Minister Shivakumar appealed to Kannada organisations to withdraw a planned state wide bandh scheduled for August 13, arguing that the protest would harm schools and businesses. However, protest leader Vatal Nagaraj maintained that the bandh will proceed, citing multiple grievances including the Mahadayi river water dispute and employment for Kannadigas. Shivakumar continues to advocate for the proposed Mekedatu balancing reservoir as the long term solution for both states.

Reporting on the political dynamics differs by perspective. Center left sources focus on the logistical details of water flow and the Chief Minister's appeals for peace and stability. In contrast, center right framing highlights the political friction, including allegations that the Karnataka Chief Minister may be prioritizing relationships with the DMK over the interests of his own state.