Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar reiterated the state government's commitment to implementing the Sharavathi Pumped Storage Project, saying it is crucial for meeting Karnataka's future power requirements despite objections from some quarters. He made the remarks while addressing the 57th Foundation Day celebrations of Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL), which he praised for strengthening the state's power sector and implementing welfare schemes such as Gruha Jyoti. The event underlined the government's focus on infrastructure and social measures linked to energy delivery.

Shivakumar said that groundwork for the Sharavathi Pumped Storage Project had been initiated previously but did not materialise then, and that efforts are now under way to implement it with statutory clearances being obtained. He acknowledged objections raised by some stakeholders but insisted that the administration would not retreat from a project it considers crucial for the State. The chief minister linked the project to long term power security and the ability to manage demand variation.

The chief minister also recalled earlier opposition to the Yelahanka gas-based power plant and noted that the government proceeded with that project in the state's interest, which has since begun generating electricity. He commended Karnataka Power Corporation Limited for its role in expanding generation capacity and for executing schemes aimed at improving access to power for households. Officials at the event reiterated the importance of multi?pronged strategies combining new projects and welfare schemes.

The address came during celebrations marking KPCL's foundation day and follows ongoing efforts to secure approvals for major infrastructure projects in the energy sector. Observers say the move signals the government's intention to prioritise large scale storage and generation projects to meet growing demand and enhance grid resilience. The state administration indicated it will continue to pursue statutory processes while engaging with stakeholders as implementation progresses.