Central government approves forest land for Karnataka’s Upper Bhadra Project

In a significant development, the Central Government has granted conditional approval for the utilization of forest land for Karnataka’s Upper Bhadra Project, bringing relief to the state's drought-prone regions.

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The National Wildlife Council’s Standing Committee has authorized the use of 128 acres of forest land within the Bukkapatna Chinkara Wildlife Sanctuary in Shira taluk. However, the approval comes with specific conditions. Karnataka must construct elevated roads every 500 meters along the canal to ensure unhindered movement of Chinkara wildlife. The state government has accepted these terms to proceed with the project.

Project Benefits

The Upper Bhadra Project promises to transform the agricultural landscape of Tumkur, Chitradurga, and Davangere districts. It will supply water to Shira, Chikkanayakanahalli, and Pavagada taluks in Tumkur, enabling efficient irrigation through drip systems. Water will be pumped into tanks and distributed to farms, revitalizing crops in these drought-stricken regions.

Implemented under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana, the project aims to provide sustainable irrigation solutions and boost agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region, who have endured decades of water scarcity, view this initiative as a long-awaited lifeline.

With the project set to address the perennial drought issues of Central Karnataka, it marks a milestone in realizing the aspirations of local farmers, paving the way for agricultural prosperity and economic growth.