This has reference to the excellent article entitled “Cauvery Dispute: A Lament and a Proposal” (EPW, 30 March 2013) by Ramaswamy R Iyer on the history, complex dynamics and current status of the Cauvery River dispute. I run a conservation foundation in Bangalore and, as much of our work is along the river, I have had an opportunity to see the issue up-close. As Iyer points out, there is considerable political capital to be had in helping the dispute fester; this makes any sort of solution unacceptable to one state or the other. (Letters)