Water is a state subject and the Centre has no right to declare it a national resource, says state water resources minister; argues that a common central policy for all states is both impractical and unconstitutional.
Proposed hydro-electric project faces another roadblock as the youth join in to express their dissent. Stating that the project would only benefit some commercial interests, youth leaders demanded that the government supply translations of the relevant documents in Malayalam for the public to read and understand.
The Ministry of Environment and Forests has decided to extend the deadline for submission of 'ecologically sensitive areas' proposals since many states have missed the earlier deadline. Once declared as a ESZ (Economic sensitive zone) no industry, hydro-power or mining will be allowed in that area, thereby encouraging wildlife conservation.
Gulbarga’s groundwater level falls drastically, and people feel the heat as power cuts compound their woes. 35 % of villages already face water shortage even as the barrage stored water can barely last another 25 days.
The Karnataka government is going to set up drinking water supply units in more than 2000 villages. Minister promises to ensure clearance of files within 10 days, but fails to check on the validity of the scheme. Where will the pipes get water from?
This is a roundup of important news from May 20 to 26, 2013.