DK Shivakumar Sets May Deadline For Full Replacement Of Tungabhadra Dam Crest Gates, Allays Farmers' Fears

Last Updated:March 14, 2026, 00:03 IST

Shivakumar also said the Andhra Pradesh government has not responded to Karnataka’s request for discussions on the proposed Navali Balancing Reservoir

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar has claimed that all crest gates of the Tungabhadra Dam will be replaced by May this year as part of an ongoing modernisation effort this, even as farmers are worried about the slow pace of work and the impact of it on storage when monsoon season arrives.

Replying to a query raised by T. A. Sharavana during Zero Hour, Shivakumar, who also holds the Irrigation portfolio, said the replacement work is progressing according to schedule. “We are replacing all the crest gates of Tungabhadra Dam. It requires about seven days to replace one crest gate. As per media reports, 14 gates have been replaced till March 10. The replacement will be completed as per schedule," he said.

The Deputy CM said the state government had signed an agreement on June 10, 2025, with an Ahmedabad-based firm, Hardware Tool and Machinery Project Company, to replace the crest gates at a cost of ₹34.48 crore within 15 months. According to him, fabrication of 25 crest gates has already been completed while two more are under fabrication. “Fourteen gates have been replaced and the replacement of three more gates is currently underway. We have taken all measures to ensure completion of the work by May," he added.

Andhra Not Responding on Navali Reservoir Talks

Shivakumar also said the Andhra Pradesh government has not responded to Karnataka’s request for discussions on the proposed Navali Balancing Reservoir.

“The Andhra Pradesh government isn’t coming for discussions on the Navali Balancing Reservoir. Some have suggested alternative plans, but the Andhra CM is not giving time for talks. We cannot take a unilateral decision; it must be decided by all three riparian states," he said, adding that a significant quantity of water currently flows into the sea and could be utilised if there is political consensus.

Responding to concerns raised by MLC B. G. Patil regarding reports of compensation not being released to landowners, the Deputy CM assured that he would seek the relevant files from officials and ensure immediate action.

Andhra Objection Over Krishna Upper Bank Project

During a separate discussion under Rule 330, Shivakumar criticised BJP leaders for not raising their voice against objections from Andhra Pradesh regarding the Krishna Upper Bank Project.

He said the Andhra Pradesh government had written to the Centre opposing land acquisition and compensation processes related to the project. “Despite this, BJP leaders are not raising their voice. I, along with Ministers H. K. Patil and M. B. Patil, will visit New Delhi next week and meet Members of Parliament to present our state’s concerns," he said.

The Deputy CM clarified that the government has already decided to compensate farmers affected by the project and is exploring options regarding rehabilitation of families from around 20 villages expected to be submerged.

News india DK Shivakumar Sets May Deadline For Full Replacement Of Tungabhadra Dam Crest Gates, Allays Farmers' Fears

Read More