K. Shivakumar, a prominent MLC, has formally appealed to the Centre’s 16th Finance Commission for substantial financial aid. His proposal centers on the urgent need for retaining walls along the vulnerable banks of the Kapila and Cauvery rivers, a measure he believes is essential to prevent the repeated displacement of communities in flood-prone areas.
In his detailed submission to the Chairman of the 16th Finance Commission, Government of India, Mr. Shivakumar starkly outlined the persistent struggles faced by those living near the Kapila and Cauvery. This includes residents in Nanjangud, T. Narsipura, and Kollegal taluks across the Mysuru and Chamarajanagar districts.
“During every monsoon season, particularly when water is discharged from the Kabini reservoir, these rivers inevitably swell and inundate nearby settlements,” the MLC explained. He highlighted the severe impact on families, many of whom are impoverished agricultural laborers and small-scale farmers, who are forced to abandon their homes and livestock for one to two months, seeking temporary refuge.
He further elaborated that “these forced evacuations inflict immense hardship and disrupt the daily lives and education of children in villages such as Mullur, Hale Annahalli, Harale, Saragur, Danagere, Sathegala, and Yadamuri in Kollegal taluk of Chamrajangar district, along with several other villages in Mysuru district.”
To alleviate these profound difficulties, Mr. Shivakumar has proposed constructing robust retaining walls along the most susceptible sections of the riverbanks. These structures would span distances of 2.5 to 3.5 kilometers in Nanjangud and T. Narsipura, and a substantial 6 kilometers in Kollegal taluk, covering both sides of the riverbed.
The MLC emphasized that “these protective barriers would shield habitations from seasonal flooding, combat soil erosion, and guarantee long-term stability for communities that have endured decades of periodic submersion.” He urgently requested the 16th Finance Commission to consider providing special financial assistance or grants amounting to ₹500 crore under suitable provisions to execute this vital infrastructure project.
Mr. Shivakumar concluded by stressing that the construction of these retaining walls would deliver enduring relief to countless affected families, significantly bolster flood management efforts, enhance rural resilience, and ensure the sustainable protection of livelihoods throughout the region.