The state of Goa is currently facing concerns over Karnataka’s plan to construct the Kalasa Bhandura canal, which aims to divert water from the upper reaches of the Mhadei River to the Malaprabha basin. This issue has sparked a dispute between the governments of Karnataka and Goa regarding the sharing of the waters of the Mandovi River, also known as Mhadei in its upper reaches. In this essay, we will explore the significance of the River Mandovi, the dispute over water sharing, and the implications of the proposed canal.
The Significance of River Mandovi
The River Mandovi holds immense importance for the state of Goa. It is considered the lifeline of Goa, along with the Zuari River, as it provides water for various purposes, including agriculture, domestic use, and industrial activities. The river originates from a cluster of 30 springs in the Western Ghats of Karnataka and enters Goa from the north, eventually flowing into the Arabian Sea. The catchment area of the river extends across Goa, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. Panaji, the capital of Goa, is situated on the left bank of the Mandovi River. Notable natural attractions like the Dudhsagar Falls and Varapoha Falls are also located along the river.
The Dispute over Water Sharing
The dispute between Karnataka and Goa revolves around the sharing of water from the Mandovi River. Karnataka’s government plans to divert water from the Mahadayi River to the Malaprabha River basin through the Kalasa-Banduri Nala project. This proposal has raised concerns for Goa, as it could potentially affect the water flow and availability in the Mandovi River, which is crucial for the state’s water needs.
The Central Water Commission’s Approval
Recently, the Central Water Commission (CWC) approved the Detailed Project Report (DPR) of the Kalasa-Banduri Nala project. This decision has further intensified the concerns for Goa, as it signifies a step forward in the implementation of the canal. The approval by the CWC has sparked debates and discussions among stakeholders in Goa, who fear the adverse impacts on the ecological balance and water availability in the Mandovi River.
Challenging the Mhadei Water Disputes Tribunal Award
Adding to the complexity of the issue, the Mhadei Water Disputes Tribunal (MWDT) Award on the allocation of water between Goa, Karnataka, and Maharashtra, which was issued in 2018, has been questioned in the Supreme Court by all parties involved. This legal challenge has created a further delay in resolving the dispute and finding a mutually acceptable solution for water sharing.
Implications of the Proposed Canal
The construction of the Kalasa Bhandura canal could have significant implications for both Karnataka and Goa. Some potential consequences include:
- Water scarcity in Goa: Diverting water from the upper reaches of the Mhadei River may reduce the water flow downstream, leading to water scarcity in Goa. This could have detrimental effects on agriculture, drinking water supply, and the overall ecosystem of the region.
- Environmental impact: The proposed canal could disrupt the natural flow of the river and impact the biodiversity of the area. It may also result in the loss of flora and fauna that depend on the river’s ecosystem.
- Economic repercussions: Goa heavily relies on tourism, and any negative impact on the environment and water resources could affect the tourism industry, resulting in economic losses for the state.
- Inter-state relations: The ongoing dispute has strained the relationship between Karnataka and Goa. Resolving this issue through peaceful negotiations and finding a fair solution is crucial for maintaining cordial relations between the two states.
Important Points:
- 🌊 River Mandovi:
- Considered the ‘lifeline of Goa’ and known as Mhadei in its upper reaches.
- Originates from the Western Ghats in Karnataka.
- Joins with the Zuari River at Mormugao harbour.
- Panaji, the state capital, is located on its left bank.
- Dudhsagar Falls and Varapoha Falls are notable attractions.
- Enters Goa from the north and falls into the Arabian Sea.
- Catchment area spreads over Goa, Karnataka, and Maharashtra.
- 💦 Dispute over Water Sharing:
- Karnataka plans to construct the Kalasa Bhandura canal.
- Goa and Karnataka are in dispute over sharing Mandovi River waters.
- Kalasa-Banduri Nala project aims to divert water from Mhadei to Malaprabha basin.
- Concerns raised about water flow and availability in Mandovi River.
- Supreme Court has been approached regarding the Mhadei Water Disputes Tribunal Award.
- 👥 Implications of Proposed Canal:
- Water scarcity in Goa due to reduced flow downstream.
- Environmental impact on the river’s ecosystem and biodiversity.
- Potential economic losses for Goa’s tourism industry.
- Strained inter-state relations between Goa and Karnataka.
- 🌍 Importance of River Mandovi:
- Lifeline of Goa alongside the Zuari River.
- Supplies water for agriculture, domestic use, and industrial activities.
- Originates from springs in the Western Ghats.
- Dudhsagar Falls and Varapoha Falls are natural attractions.
- Panaji, the state capital, situated on its left bank.
- Enters Goa from the north and flows into the Arabian Sea.
- Catchment area spreads across Goa, Karnataka, and Maharashtra.
- 📝 Central Water Commission’s Approval:
- Detailed Project Report (DPR) for Kalasa-Banduri Nala project approved.
- Intensified concerns for Goa about canal’s implementation.
- 🚧 Challenging the MWDT Award:
- Mhadei Water Disputes Tribunal Award questioned in Supreme Court.
- Legal challenge delays resolution of the water sharing dispute.
Why In News
Goa is deeply worried about Karnataka’s proposed construction of the Kalasa Bhandura canal, which aims to redirect water from the upper reaches of Mhadei to the Malaprabha basin, potentially impacting Goa’s water resources and ecosystem. The government of Goa has expressed strong opposition to this plan, highlighting the potential ecological and socio-economic consequences it could have on the region.
MCQs about Implications for River Mandovi in Goa
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What is the main concern for Goa regarding Karnataka’s plan to construct the Kalasa Bhandura canal?
A. Environmental impact
B. Economic losses
C. Water scarcity
D. Inter-state relations
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Where does the River Mandovi originate from?
A. Arabian Sea
B. Western Ghats in Goa
C. Western Ghats in Karnataka
D. Malaprabha basin
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What is the purpose of the Kalasa-Banduri Nala project?
A. Divert water from the Malaprabha basin to the Mhadei River
B. Supply water to Maharashtra
C. Divert water from the Mandovi River to the Malaprabha basin
D. Generate hydroelectric power
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What potential implications can the proposed canal have on Goa’s tourism industry?
A. Increased tourist attractions
B. Economic growth
C. Environmental degradation
D. Economic losses
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