Rs 540 cr project in Mandya to quench thirst of 4 taluks

Mandya: Deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar on Monday laid the foundation stone and conducted an on-site inspection for a Rs 540-crore drinking water supply project aimed at providing a long-term solution to water scarcity in neighbouring Ramanagara district.

The ambitious project will source water from Cauvery River at the Sattegala Barrage near Belakavadi in Malavalli taluk, Mandya district. Prior to the groundbreaking ceremony, the DCM offered prayers at Hirena1garadamma Temple. Speaking at the event, held near the Sattegala dam, Shivakumar underscored the significance of the project, which is designed to channel water through a gravity-fed system to the Iggaluru barrage. The initiative, spearheaded by the Cauvery Neeravari Nigam, will benefit the taluks of Ramanagara, Kanakapura, Magadi, and Channapatna.

A key highlight of the project is the construction of an 11-km tunnel near Sattegala, which will serve as a vital conduit for transporting water to the target areas. Shivakumar inspected the ongoing tunnelling work and stressed its importance in ensuring a consistent and reliable water supply. Shivakumar noted that the project was originally conceptualised during his earlier tenure as minister for water resources, but faced delays due to land acquisition challenges. These issues, primarily involving local farmers, are now resolved with appropriate compensation measures. With the hurdles cleared, Shivakumar announced that the project is on track for completion by Dec this year.

During the event, local residents and priest of the Chikka Marigudi Temple submitted requests for temple and road infrastructure improvements. Responding positively, Shivakumar instructed officials to integrate these development works into the broader scope of the project.

The ceremony was attended by former MP DK Suresh, MLAs CP Yogeshwar and Kadaluru Uday, and senior district officials from Mandya.