In a long-awaited development for the drought-prone district of Chitradurga, water from the Bhadra Dam is scheduled to flow into the Chitradurga branch canal on a trial basis starting September 6, 2026. Following official directives from the Karnataka state government, the Visvesvaraya Jala Nigam Limited (VJNL) completed all necessary technical arrangements for the trial run under the ambitious Upper Bhadra Lift Irrigation Project.
The primary canal route traverses through Hosadurga, Holalkere, Hiriyur, and Chitradurga taluks before reaching Gonuru Lake. From Gonuru, the water will be directed through a natural stream channel to feed Ranikere in Challakere taluk. Local farmers and agricultural communities across central Karnataka have expressed immense relief and excitement, as the water supply is expected to recharge depleted groundwater tables, ease acute drinking water shortages, and rejuvenate agricultural lands that have suffered from severe rainfall deficits.
To ensure public safety during the initial filling of the canals, district authorities and VJNL officials have issued strict advisory guidelines. Walking or standing along canal beds, swimming, letting livestock graze in dangerous proximity, and illegally installing diesel pump sets to draw water have been strictly prohibited. Officials warned that any tampering with irrigation canal structures will attract legal penalties under prevailing irrigation statutes.
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