The Supreme Court decided on Friday to hear before February 13, the petition filed by the State of Goa against the Central Water Commission (CWC) giving approval to the Karnataka government’s detailed project report (DPR) for the construction of dams on Mhadei river, which would lead to diversion of Mhadei river water into Karnataka.
Senior Advocate Venkatesh Dhond, appearing for the State of Goa, mentioned the matter before the Bench comprising Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud and Justice Dipankar Datta.
The Counsel contended that the matter was related to divergence of three rivers near the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary in Goa, besides the construction of dams on Mhadei river, which would lead to diversion of Mhadei/Mandovi river system waters into the Malaprabha reservoir in Karnataka.
Stating that he might not hear the dispute, but would assign a coram for the same, the CJI listed the matter on February 13 for further hearing.
However, Senior Advocate Venkatesh Dhond pointed out that the divergence of rivers would take place before February 13. Justice Chandrachud then said that he would list the matter before February 13.
The tributary of Kalsa flows from Karnataka and becomes Surla tributary on reaching Goa. It then meets the main Mhadei river in Goa. Similarly, the Bhandura nalla also starts from Karnataka and joins the Mhadei.
The CWC had permitted Karnataka to divert Kalsa, Hartal and Bhandura to Malprabha basin.