CHITRADURGA
The Irrigation Implementation Struggle Committee has pledged to continue its fight until water reaches Jagalur, Challakere and Molakalmuru, saying celebrations will come only after the irrigation goals are achieved.
The pledge was made after an open space was dedicated in the Bhadra Lift area near Shantipura in Tarikere, Chikkamagaluru district. Leaders urged the state and central governments to take responsibility and complete the Upper Bhadra project without further delay.
Leaders said the movement was built around the needs of people in the three taluks of undivided Chitradurga district. Progress has remained slower than expected, and the struggle will not end simply when water enters the Chitradurga branch canal. They said the final goal is to deliver water to the targeted lakes and areas.
The committee is watching the Upper Bhadra work, funding shortages and the slow pace of construction. It has repeatedly asked governments to speed up the project and warned against giving people false assurances. Under the project, 367 lakes are to receive water, but trial supply through the Chitradurga branch canal is expected to cover only 100 lakes. Leaders said officials must explain how and when the remaining lakes will be filled.
At the programme, Sanehalli Swamiji Panditaradhya Shivacharya said farmers and leaders had fought for three decades to secure the water. He urged people to remain alert even after water arrives and remember those who led the struggle. Shivamogga Basava Kendra Swamiji Shri Marulasiddha said the river reaching drought-hit plains has brought hope. He called for continued unity so water flows to every promised area.