Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Sep 15: Stepping up its efforts in the Mhadei river dispute, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Sunday assured that his government is fully committed to protecting the state’s water rights and is preparing for the next phase in the legal battle with Karnataka.

After holding talks with the Mhadei Bachao Abhiyan (MBA) delegation, the Chief Minister confirmed that Goa is now seeking permission for a comprehensive aerial survey of the Kalsa-Bhandura project site, which is central to the ongoing conflict. The data is expected to strengthen Goa's position in both the Supreme Court and the tribunal proceedings.

“We take the Mhadei issue seriously. The suggestions by the Mhadei Bachao Abhiyan are being reviewed, and we’ll consult legal experts and the Advocate General on the next course of action,” CM Sawant said.

Water Resources Minister Subhash Shirodkar added that the CM will formally request Karnataka's Chief Minister to allow the aerial survey and that Goa is preparing to seek an expedited hearing in the Supreme Court.

The MBA team, led by convener Nirmala Sawant, submitted several key demands during the meeting — including police protection for a planned visit to the Kankumbi-Bandura region and swift legal progress. “The Chief Minister has assured us of police cover for the visit, and our requests regarding Karnataka’s survey and other concerns were taken seriously,” she said.

Environmental activist Rajendra Kerkar called for stronger legal coordination at the national level. “Goa must appoint a dedicated Advocate on Record in Delhi to manage the Supreme Court matter. We’ve also urged Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav to pay closer attention to the environmental impacts of water diversion,” he said.

It was confirmed that Dilip Naik, retired Superintending Engineer, will now serve as Advocate on Record for Goa’s Mhadei Cell, handling coordination with Karnataka and legal representation before the tribunal.

Among the agreed next steps:

• Fixing a Supreme Court hearing date
• Conducting the aerial survey, likely in October
• Engaging with the Union Environment Ministry
• Continuing talks with Karnataka authorities

“The Chief Minister has pledged to pursue all legal and administrative steps, ensuring the Mhadei issue is tackled on priority,” Nirmala Sawant concluded.