Tamil Nadu is planning to postpone its decision to approach the Supreme Court over the Cauvery water dispute, as the immediate water situation appears to be easing, according to developments reported on Saturday.
The state had earlier planned a meeting in Bengaluru on August 3 between Chief Minister Vijay and Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar to discuss the Cauvery river water issue and the Mekedatu dam matter. A letter was sent and Karnataka’s consent was reportedly obtained, but Shivakumar later advised that the visit be avoided, citing an unfavourable situation.
Following that, Tamil Nadu moved towards filing an appeal in the Supreme Court to seek directions to Karnataka to release the state’s due share of water. Government lawyers were said to be focusing on preparations for an appeal on August 3.
However, heavy rainfall in Karnataka has filled the Kabini reservoir, with surplus water reportedly being released at more than 25,000 cusecs. This has strengthened expectations of inflows to the Mettur dam, prompting Tamil Nadu to consider deferring the court move.
At the same time, the state is also weighing a Supreme Court petition urging the Cauvery Management Authority to act impartially. The report notes Tamil Nadu’s concern over the Authority’s direction that 3,500 cusecs for 15 days would suffice, and it disputes Karnataka’s claim—made after an all-party meeting—that Tamil Nadu sought only 9.19 TMC of water.
