The Belagavi drinking water scheme can serve 131 villages in Gokak and Hukkeri taluks. The project is estimated to cost Rs. 990 crore, but it has been in trouble because the state government and the forest department have not given clearances. The implementing agency, the Union Ministry for Environment, has not approved the project because they say that forest land is a habitat for wild animals. The project is about constructing a dam at the downside of the river where it joins the Markandeya and Ballari Nala. The dam is expected to store 6 tmcft of water, which will be used to serve the needs of 131 villages, to protect Gokak town from flooding, and to supply water to industries.
