Cauvery water inflow into Tamil Nadu has been declining, prompting farmer groups to discuss stepping up protests as the delta’s kuruvai cultivation season begins. Political parties are also preparing to use the issue to mount pressure on the government, according to the report.
As per the annual requirement, Karnataka is to release 177.25 TMC of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu, with monthly quantities fixed by the Cauvery Management Authority. For June, Karnataka was to release 9.19 TMC, but only 2.77 TMC had crossed the Biligundlu gauge site up to June 24, leaving a pending shortfall of 4.57 TMC.
The report says the deficit could rise beyond 6 TMC by the end of the month. In the delta districts including Thanjavur, Tiruvarur and Nagapattinam, kuruvai paddy cultivation has begun, and water was expected to be opened from the Mettur dam on June 12 as per the usual schedule.
However, Mettur currently holds about 41 TMC, and 1,000 cusecs is being released for drinking water needs. With reduced inflows from Karnataka, meeting irrigation and drinking water requirements could become difficult, increasing anxiety among farmers.
Opposition parties including the DMK, AIADMK and PMK are said to have initiated steps to mobilise farmer organisations. A padayatra towards Biligundlu has been announced under PMK leader Anbumani, while party functionaries are reportedly advising farmers to raise the issue in grievance meetings at collectorates. The report adds that the DMK and AIADMK have decided to provide vehicles and financial assistance if farmer bodies launch protests.
