Karnataka Agriculture Minister P.M. Narendra Swamy has said that Karnataka is facing a drought-like situation and a shortage of drinking water, urging Goa, Karnataka and Maharashtra to resolve the Mhadei water dispute in the spirit of friendship.
Speaking to the media in Goa, Swamy said Karnataka needs Mhadei's water to meet its requirements, particularly amid the prevailing water shortage.
His remarks, however, have triggered a fresh controversy over the Tillari water issue, with reports that Karnataka is also seeking to divert water from the Tillari project.
Goa Water Resources Minister Subhash Shirodkar strongly opposed the proposal, stating that Karnataka had not been able to secure Mahadayi water despite years of efforts and that diverting Tillari water would also not be possible.