Upper Bhadra Project: Trial run to Chitradurga branch canal begins
Three TMC of water is being released as part of the trial run, launched at the project’s intake point on the Bhadra reservoir
On September 6, 2026, the Upper Bhadra Project marked a historic moment with the commencement of water release from the Bhadra reservoir into the Chitradurga Branch Canal. This trial run, initiated at the project's intake point on the Bhadra reservoir, involved the release of 3 TMC (Thousand Million Cubic feet) of water. The larger project aims to supply water to 12 taluks across four districts — Chitradurga, Tumakuru, Chikkamagaluru, and Davanagere.
The Minister for Scheduled Tribes Welfare and Chitradurga District in-charge, who witnessed the event, expressed satisfaction at the project's realization after a struggle spanning six to seven decades. He acknowledged the tireless efforts of individuals, associations, and farmer groups who campaigned for the project, many of whom were no longer alive to see it completed.
The project involves lifting 17.4 TMC of water from the Tunga river into the Bhadra reservoir and an additional 12.5 TMC from the reservoir itself. The total 29.9 TMC is then distributed through the Chitradurga Branch Canal and the Tumakuru Branch Canal. The project's goal is to fill 367 tanks and provide drip irrigation to 2.25 lakh hectares.
However, pending works such as the completion of drip irrigation infrastructure and tank-filling works have restricted the water release to 3 TMC for now. Several elected representatives and officials were present at the event.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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