Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on 07 February, 2026 highlighted that several major irrigation and drinking water projects in Karnataka, including Krishna Phase III, Mekedatu, and Upper Bhadra, are awaiting clearance and financial support from Centre.

The CM made these remarks during the foundation stone-laying ceremony and bhoomi puja for the Bennehalla flood control project, along with other development works, in Shiraguppi village of the Navalgund Assembly constituency. Recalling that the Supreme Court had cleared the Kalasa-Banduri project in 2018, Siddaramaiah noted that the tendering process for the project has already been finalized. “If the Central government gives its permission, the work can begin as early as tomorrow,” he said, emphasizing the urgency of starting these long-pending initiatives. He also mentioned that approvals from the National Board for Wildlife are still awaited, which is delaying project execution.

The Chief Minister stressed the importance of expediting clearances and funding so that these crucial irrigation and water supply projects can benefit farmers and communities across the state.