Goemkarponn Desk
PANAJI: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has expressed optimism that the Supreme Court will rule in favour of both states, citing the Mhadei river as a lifeline for Goa and maybe a poll issue for Karnataka.
“Goa’s lifeline is Mhadei. It is necessary for agricultural, drinking water, flora and fauna conservation, environmental and ecological preservation, and drinking water conservation. Thus, it is essential that Mhadei flow continuously through Goa, Sawant said
When questioned about Karnataka’s demand that the Mhadei River be diverted, Sawant stated that Karnataka is using it as an electoral platform.
Sawant said that in Karnataka, elections might have an impact on this, but not in Goa, where Mhadei is an essential source of life (Jeevandayini). With the Center, the Supreme Court, and PRAWAH (Progressive River Authority for Welfare and Harmony), we have so filed a petition.
“We won’t stop at anything to prove our claim to the Mhadei River,” he added.
CM said that Goa is hopeful of the Supreme Court passing a verdict in favour of conserving the environment and it will protect the interests of both riparian States.
“The matter is pending before the National Wildlife Board. I would like to believe that it will permit whatever is permissible. We understand that providing drinking water to parts of Karnataka is important,’ he added.
Sawant also said that equally important is the conservation of the environment and Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary.
“I believe that it will be safeguarding the interests of both the States,” he said.
