Preparations for facing potential water scarcity underway in Udupi & DK

Authorities in Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts are readying for potential drinking water challenges as concerns loom over water scarcity in the region. In Udupi district, the administration has commenced the process of identifying villages requiring tanker-supplied drinking water, although there is currently no shortage reported.

Information regarding drinking water availability in villages in Karkala, Kapu, Kundapur, Byndoor, Saligram, and 155 other villages has been relayed to the district administration and Gram Panchayats.

Despite the absence of water tanker distribution at present, dwindling water levels in crucial water bodies like the Baje Dam, which feeds Udupi City, are raising concerns. Main rivers, lakes, and wells in the district are progressively drying up due to a 25% rainfall deficit this year, resulting in record-low groundwater levels.

Last year, 99 villages, comprising 45,545 individuals from 9,939 families, received tanker-supplied water, costing the administration 56.90 lakhs. However, with even less rainfall this year, the number of villages requiring tanker-supplied water is anticipated to increase during the summer months.

Moreover, there are challenges in tenders for procuring water tanker services under the government system, leading to delays. Private tankers are considered more efficient, yet there are concerns regarding fair distribution and rates under government tenders. Last year, some panchayats resorted to using garbage trucks to carry water tanks to supply water, highlighting the dire need for innovative solutions.

In response to these challenges, the Udupi District Deputy Commissioner Dr K Vidyakumari chaired a meeting of the District Disaster Management Authority, directing officials to ensure effective water management measures.

Key directives include immediate installation of boards for Gram Panchayat vented dams, identification of private wells and tube wells for water supply, regular meetings of taluk-level task force committees, maintenance of drinking water infrastructure, and mobilization of disaster management personnel and volunteers.

Additionally, the implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) for piped water supply in rural areas is facing delays despite nearing pipeline completion, with only a fraction of the targeted families connected to date. The administration aims to complete JJM work by the end of 2024.

In Dakshina Kannada district, despite Mangaluru and Moodbidri taluks being notified moderately drought-prone, adequate rainfall has mitigated drinking water issues thus far. However, preparations for water supply and cattle fodder distribution are underway, with measures in place to address potential shortages.

Authorities emphasize the importance of identifying tube wells and entering contracts for water use, along with utilizing tanker services in areas lacking groundwater sources.

Officials stress the significance of transparent tendering processes and task force meetings to address any emerging issues promptly. As the region braces for potential water scarcity, proactive measures and collaborative efforts between authorities and communities remain imperative to ensure sustained access to clean drinking water.