Karnataka is set to observe a 12-hour bandh on August 13 as Kannada activist groups protest over the Cauvery water disputeThe shutdown, scheduled from 6 am to 6 pm, also focuses on long-pending projects including Mekedatu, Mahadayi and Kalasa-Banduri.
Published: August 12, 2026, 5:54 PM IST
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Farmers, led by farmers’ association leader Ayya Kannu, stage a protest by burying themselves in sand on the banks of the Cauvery River, demanding the immediate release of Cauvery water for irrigation in TiruchirappalliANI
Karnataka bandh 2026: Kannada activists have announced a state bandh on Thursday (August 13) in connection with the protests around the Cauvery water disputeA 12-hour shutdown has been called by pro-Kannada groups from 6 am to 6 pm, with demands including stronger measures on the Cauvery water dispute and movement on projects like Mekedatu, Mahadayi and Kalasa-Banduri.
What are Kannada organisations protesting?
The bandh on August 13 has been called over Karnataka’s long-standing water disputes with neighbouring states, with the Mekedatu, Mahadayi and Kalasa-Banduri projects at the centre of the demandsNagaraj said over 2,000 pro-Kannada organisations have supported the shutdown so far, and the figure could cross 3,000 by August 13.
Also Read | DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin arrested over ‘Trisha’ chant remark at Cauvery protest
According to the organisers, Attibele was selected for Monday’s protest as it is an important gateway between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, with a high volume of passenger and goods vehicles passing through the area.
What will be affected?
Public transport, local traffic, and commercial markets may see some disruption to normal wayBuses, auto-rickshaws, and cabs may face disruptions, delays, or localised haltingMeanwhile, heavy vehicle movement and passenger transit, particularly around border points like the Attibele border, will experience delays and traffic diversionsAlong with this, Standalone shops, commercial markets, and hotels in certain areas may remain shut or pull down shutters temporarily.
What will remain unaffected?
Hospitals and pharmacies are expected to continue operating despite the bandhSchools are also likely to remain open after the Karnataka Associated Managements of Schools reversed its earlier decision to call for a closureNormal traffic movement continues across Bengaluru and other districts, with the larger bandh scheduled for August 13Those travelling within the city or using routes that do not pass through Attibele are unlikely to face significant inconvenience from Monday’s protest.
Also Read | What is the Mekedatu project? Why Tamil Nadu is opposing the dam proposal on Cauvery River
What will happen on August 13?
Vatal Nagaraj has called for a Karnataka-wide shutdown on August 13, seeking support from various sectorsHe has asked hotel owners in Bengaluru and Mysuru to shut their establishments during the bandhNagaraj also said protests could be stepped up if Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay Joseph does not extend support to the Mekedatu reservoir project.
