Supreme court's verdict on tamilnadu karnataka cauvery water dispute?
Supreme Court's Verdict on Tamil Nadu-Karnataka Cauvery Water Dispute
In a landmark verdict, the Supreme Court of India delivered its judgment on the long-standing Cauvery water dispute between the states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The dispute over sharing the waters of the Cauvery River has been a contentious issue for decades and has led to tensions and protests between the two states.
Background:
The Cauvery River originates in Karnataka and flows through Tamil Nadu before joining the Bay of Bengal. The dispute arises from the sharing of the waters of the river between the two states. Both states have been claiming their rightful share of the river's water for irrigation and other purposes.
Key Points of the Supreme Court's Verdict:
The Supreme Court's verdict on the Cauvery water dispute can be summarized as follows:
1. Formation of the Cauvery Management Board (CMB): The Supreme Court directed the central government to constitute the Cauvery Management Board (CMB) within six weeks from the date of the judgment. The CMB would be responsible for implementing the tribunal's award and ensuring the proper sharing of Cauvery water among the riparian states.
2. Water Sharing Formula: The court upheld the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal's (CWDT) final award, which was modified by a subsequent Supreme Court order. According to the formula, Tamil Nadu will receive 404.25 thousand million cubic feet (TMC) of water, Karnataka will receive 284.75 TMC, Kerala will receive 30 TMC, and Puducherry will receive 7 TMC.
3. Reduction in Karnataka's Share: The Supreme Court reduced Karnataka's share of Cauvery water by 14.75 TMC, citing the increased demand for drinking water in Bengaluru and other cities in the state. This reduction was aimed at addressing the concerns of the growing urban population in Karnataka.
4. Mandatory Releases: The court directed Karnataka to release 177.25 TMC of water to Tamil Nadu in a "normal year" from June to May. In case of a "distress year," the release would be 192 TMC. The court also emphasized the need for regular monitoring and compliance with the water-sharing arrangements.
Conclusion:
The Supreme Court's verdict on the Cauvery water dispute attempted to strike a balance between the competing interests of the riparian states. By upholding the award of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal and reducing Karnataka's share, the court aimed to ensure a fair and equitable distribution of the river's water. The formation of the Cauvery Management Board further reinforced the court's commitment to implementing the water-sharing arrangements and resolving the long-standing dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.