Why Maharashtra CM Fadnavis Is Opposing Karnataka’s Plan To Raise Almatti Dam Height

Last Updated:August 01, 2025, 10:39 IST

Fadnavis has urged the Centre to intervene, warning that raising the Almatti Dam height could worsen floods in Maharashtra’s downstream districts

The Almatti Dam, located in Karnataka on the Krishna River, is a key hydroelectric and irrigation structure. (Wikimedia Commons)

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has raised serious concerns over Karnataka’s proposed plan to increase the height of the Almatti Dam on the Krishna River. In a detailed letter to Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Paatil, Fadnavis urged the Centre to intervene and halt the move, warning of dire consequences for several flood-prone districts in Maharashtra.

What Is The Almatti Dam And Why Is It Controversial?

The Almatti Dam, located in Karnataka on the Krishna River, is a key hydroelectric and irrigation structure. Over the years, it has often been at the centre of inter-state disputes, particularly between Karnataka and Maharashtra, over water sharing and flood management.

The current row stems from Karnataka’s decision to raise the dam’s height from 519.6 metres to 524.256 metres. While Karnataka argues that the increase is essential to improve irrigation capacity and water storage, Maharashtra sees the move as a threat to downstream areas.

Why Is Maharashtra Objecting?

According to Fadnavis, increasing the height of the dam would intensify flooding in already vulnerable districts like Sangli and Kolhapur. These regions fall within the Krishna basin and are historically prone to severe flooding during the monsoon season.

He warned that backwater from the dam travels downstream and, with the riverbed already clogged due to silt deposits, floodwaters now take longer to recede. This not only affects thousands of residents but also damages farmlands and property.

In his letter, Fadnavis stressed that the proposed increase lacks scientific justification and would obstruct the natural flow of water. He termed any such move without a proper study as “unwise."

What Is Maharashtra Doing About It?

To better understand the potential consequences, the Maharashtra government has commissioned a detailed flood simulation and hydrodynamic study through the National Institute of Hydrology in Roorkee. The state has urged that no decision be taken until this study is complete.

Fadnavis reiterated that the issue isn’t just administrative or technical—it concerns human lives and livelihoods. He noted that adding over six metres of water during monsoon peaks could cause large-scale devastation in fertile agricultural zones.

What Does Karnataka Say?

Karnataka maintains that raising the dam height is critical for enhancing irrigation facilities and storing water for use during dry periods. However, the state has not publicly addressed Maharashtra’s concerns about downstream flooding in detail.

This standoff reflects broader inter-state tensions over water resources, which have historically seen political, legal, and environmental implications in the region.

What Happens Next?

Fadnavis has called on the Centre to step in and mediate, asking it to stop Karnataka from going ahead with the decision until a joint understanding is reached. “This is not just a policy matter but a human concern," he said, urging cooperation between both state governments to prioritise the safety and welfare of people living along the Krishna River.

The issue is likely to escalate if the Centre does not respond quickly, with Maharashtra pushing for a scientific review before any structural changes are made to the dam.

Mayuresh Ganapatye

Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories. He has been covering Maharashtra and Goa for more than a decade. Follow him at @mayuganapa...Read More

Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories. He has been covering Maharashtra and Goa for more than a decade. Follow him at @mayuganapa...

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August 01, 2025, 10:39 IST

News india Why Maharashtra CM Fadnavis Is Opposing Karnataka’s Plan To Raise Almatti Dam Height

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