.png)
Madikeri: The Kodagu district administration's directives banning the utilization of river water for irrigation have stirred discontent among farmers and coffee growers in the region.
As per The Hindu report, farmers have emphasized that this period is critical for irrigation to protect their crops. Nevertheless, given the drought situation in the state, priority is being accorded to supplying drinking water to Bengaluru, Mysuru, and other major towns.
In Kodagu, coffee planters have commenced irrigation for their plantations, yet the district administration has banned the utilization of river water for this purpose.
On Friday, March 15th, protesters from the Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha (KRRS) demonstrated in front of the Deputy Commissioner's office in Madikeri, protesting against the district administration.
K. Manu Somaiah, the district president of KRRS, expressed, "The Cauvery originates in Kodagu, yet it is regrettable that we are currently experiencing water scarcity. The main cause for the decline in Cauvery water in the district is the destruction of forests and the conversion of agricultural land for real estate development, which has been sanctioned by the district administration."
The Hindu report stated that in Kodagu, towns like Madikeri, Virajpet, and Kushalnagar are facing a severe scarcity of drinking water. Even borewells and wells have dried up, and locals say authorities have not been responsive in addressing the crisis in the district.
Codava National Council president N.U. Nachappa said: “Kodagu serves as the primary catchment area for the Cauvery. We are significant stakeholders and shareholders of Cauvery water, yet we are being deprived of utilising it to satisfy our basic water needs.”
The Hindu report also quoted Kodagu Deputy Commissioner Venkat Raja as saying: “The order is not to trouble anyone, especially farmers. With drought persisting this year and there being scarcity of drinking water, it’s crucial to conserve water for essential needs, especially with peak summer ahead. We are with farmers and have implemented numerous measures to address the water crisis in the district.”
Please Join The Kodagu Express WhatsApp Channel: CLICK HERE
Follow us on Instagram and X(Twitter) to get latest news updates and special stories from Kodagu.
Share your feedback on our website via email at thekodaguexpress@gmail.com
Comments