Bengaluru: A section of activists and others have planned to hold a protest against the proposal to construct Mekedatu project, adding to the complications of an already contentious issue. Noted activist Medha Patkar is expected to be part of the protests on Jan. 14, according to people aware of the developments.

Activists and environmentalists claim that the project, if taken up, will end up with over 12,000 acres of forests and other lands that will be submerged. “All 3 Karnataka mainstream political parties are pushing for (a) destructive dam in Mekedatu. We oppose the dam, want to preserve Mekedatu and demand eco-friendly water methods. On Jan. 14, 2022, we rights groups are uniting to protest the project. Our inspiration Medha Patkar will lead us,” Kannada actor and activist Chetan Kumar said on Twitter.