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Mahadayi River Dispute Between Karnataka and Goa
The dispute over Mahadayi river began in the late 80s and grew stronger in the subsequent decades. The matter was triggered by Karnataka’s move to design a number of dams, canals, and diversion in the route of Mahadayi river towards the Malaprabha basin. The state claimed that channeling the river water into the basin of Malaprabha, a tributary of the Krishna would meet the requirements of water-scarce districts of Bagalkot, Gadag, Dharwad, and Belagavi to meet the requirements of farmers in that region.
Now on this move of Karnataka government, Goa had raised an issue late back in the year 2002 which gained its speed in past few years. The matter is pending before the Supreme Court of India. The Government of Goa contends that its population is dependent on the river’s natural path and any move to divert its path would affect the fragile ecosystem of Goa.
Supreme Court has stayed the construction of dams and canals by Karnataka on the Mahadayi river. The Mandovi river water is an important source of water for the State of Goa. Also, it is one of the few sweet-water sources in the state. Most of the rivers of Goa’s contain salty water and Mandovi is the only river that ensures water security as well as being an important place to source fish for the state.
