Belagavi water crisis
Belagavi is bracing for a severe water crisis as reservoir levels continue to decline with rising temperatures. The Department of Rural Drinking Water and Sanitation has identified 423 villages at risk of acute water shortages this summer. In response, the district administration is preparing to supply water through tankers.
For more details : https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hubballi/belagavi-braces-for-water-crisis-as-reservoir-levels-plummet/articleshow/119492810.cms
Reservoir Levels Declining Rapidly
According to officials, Naviluteertha reservoir on the Malaprabha River, with a capacity of 37.7 tmcft, currently holds only 12 tmcft of water. Meanwhile, Hidkal dam, with a maximum capacity of 51 tmcft, has just 23.8 tmcft remaining. To conserve resources, the district has halted water supply for agricultural purposes, prioritizing drinking water.
Impact on Villages
The crisis is more severe in Chikodi division, affecting 327 villages, while 96 villages in Belagavi division are also at risk. Many multi-village drinking water projects depend on the Krishna River, which is expected to sustain supply until mid-April. However, residents fear severe shortages if rainfall is delayed.
Concerns Over Drinking Water Quality
Belagavi district has over 1,200 borewells, but villagers report that many provide unfit drinking water. There have been repeated demands for alternative arrangements to ensure clean water access.
City Water Supply Issues
Belagavi city is also facing irregular water supply. While L&T, responsible for the city’s drinking water, assures that reservoir levels are sufficient, residents complain that the water supply schedule is not being followed properly. Officials urge residents to use water judiciously, and water tankers will be deployed if needed.
Administration’s Response
Zilla Panchayat CEO Rahul Shinde has directed gram panchayats to prepare for tanker-based water supply. The administration is closely monitoring the situation to prevent a full-blown crisis.
As summer intensifies, authorities appeal for responsible water usage while taking steps to ensure sufficient drinking water supply across Belagavi.
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