Bengaluru, Nov. 14 -- Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Saturday struck a firm note on the contentious Mekedatu project, asserting that Karnataka would exercise its right to build the proposed Cauvery reservoir while honouring Tamil Nadu's allocated share of 177 TMC of water.

In a direct response to Tamil Nadu's opposition, Shivakumar said Karnataka would not abandon the project and would pursue it in accordance with the Supreme Court's directions, securing the necessary forest and environmental clearances from the Centre.

He also challenged the neighbouring state to understand the project on the ground rather than oppose it, inviting the Tamil Nadu government to send an all-party or official delegation to Karnataka.

"Let them co...