Despite vociferous protests by farmers, local communities, and civil groups, initial groundwork has silently commenced on the controversial ₹92 crore Cauvery Aarti project at Brindavan Gardens near the KRS dam in Mysuru. This move has drawn sharp criticism, particularly after the district administration promised to hold off pending consultations with higher authorities.
At a zilla panchayat meeting on Friday, District Minister N. Cheluvarayaswamy acknowledged the public outcry, lauding the unity shown by farmers and activists, and assured that no work would begin without discussions with the deputy chief minister and chief minister.
However, contradicting those statements, workers from Gadag and Hassan were spotted at the site from the weekend, engaging in tree felling and land levelling near the KRS boathouse. A worker confirmed to the Times of India that the preliminary work has been ongoing for three days.
Farmer leader Sunanda Jayaram, who has been leading the resistance, said she contacted the minister again on Monday, demanding an immediate halt. While he again promised action, activity on-site reportedly continued. Expressing dismay, she warned:
“If this continues, we will stage an indefinite protest at the KRS dam. We support development like Mysugar factory revival and the new Agriculture University, but this project threatens the dam’s safety and environment.”
Tensions continue to rise as locals gear up for intensified protests if the work persists.
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