Archive · 22 May 2025
Karnataka's Navali Reservoir Project Faces Funding, Delays
Imagine a big lake (the Tungabhadra dam) that's getting filled with mud, making it smaller.
To fix this, they planned a new lake (Navali reservoir) nearby to hold extra water.
This plan is old, but not much has happened yet.
They need money and have to talk to neighboring states.
Some people worry the new lake might flood land.
The old lake's gates are also very old and need replacing.
Farmers are losing some of their water because of all this.
The government says they will try to get it done.
A 30-year-old plan to build a balancing reservoir near Navali village in Koppal faces delays.
The proposed Navali reservoir aims to offset the water storage deficit caused by silt accumulation in the Tungabhadra dam.
Despite a detailed project report and initial budget allocation, progress is stalled due to insufficient funds and pending interstate consultations.
Stakeholders have raised concerns about environmental impacts, including land submersion.
The current government's approach contrasts with the previous administration's efforts to secure funding and initiate discussions with neighboring states.
- Who
- Karnataka government, stakeholders, and officials.
- What
- The Navali balancing reservoir project, involving a new dam and a connecting canal.
- When
- The plan has been in development for over three decades, with recent developments in 2022-2023.
- Where
- Near Navali village, Gangavathi, Koppal, with implications for the Tungabhadra dam.
- Why
- To offset the water storage deficit caused by silt accumulation in the Tungabhadra dam and address flood risks.
Stakeholders
Government
Project Implementation
Stakeholders
The current administration's inaction is impacting farmers, as they are losing 25% of their water supply annually.
Government
The government is supportive and will move forward on the project
Reservoir Size
Stakeholders
Construction of smaller reservoirs might be an alternative.
Government
A focus on the Navali project is the primary solution to the dam's problems
- Estimated Project Cost
- Rs 15,600 crore
- Navali Reservoir Capacity
- 45 TMC ft
- Silt accumulation in Tungabhadra dam
- 32 TMC ft
- Water storage capacity reduction in Tungabhadra Dam
- 25%
- Initial Budget Allocation (2022-23)
- 1,000 crore