Karnataka has informed the Supreme Court that releasing the pending 11 TMC of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu is difficult this year, citing inadequate rainfall and drought conditions. The state said it is facing a shortage even for its own requirements.
Tamil Nadu, which depends on Cauvery water as a key source for its delta regions, moved an intervention petition seeking immediate release of the shortfall. Under the Supreme Court’s verdict, Karnataka is required to release 177.25 TMC to Tamil Nadu every year.
The matter was heard by a bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Abhay S. Oka? Actually source says Abhresh Kumar Singh. During the hearing, Justice Vikram Nath noted that Tamil Nadu repeatedly points to shortages, while Karnataka submits data claiming it has released more than what was ordered, and sought an explanation.
Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for Tamil Nadu, argued that the Cauvery authority issues directions only based on current data and does not address past shortfalls. He urged the court to direct proportional sharing based on reservoir storage even during deficit periods, and to ensure shortfall quantities are also accounted for.
Senior advocate Shyam Divan, for Karnataka, said rainfall deficit has led to drought in many areas and that the state is conserving water to avoid disruption of drinking water supply in residential regions. After recording submissions from both sides, the bench adjourned the case without fixing a date for its order.
