Udupi Takes Proactive Steps to Address Groundwater Decline
Udupi, Nov 18, 2023: Deputy Commissioner Dr. K Vidya Kumari has issued a set of directives to officials aimed at proactively addressing the water scarcity concerns anticipated in the upcoming summer season across the district.
The directives were outlined during a crucial meeting of the District Disaster Management Authority, presided over by Dr. Kumari, at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office auditorium in Rajathadri, Manipal.
Given the 24 percent decline in groundwater levels this year attributed to below-average rainfall, Dr. Kumari stressed the importance of completing ongoing drinking water projects promptly. The objective is to avert potential drinking water shortages in both rural and urban areas, emphasizing the need for judicious water usage.
To tackle the impending crisis, a comprehensive blueprint will be crafted, outlining local water availability, procurement, and distribution from private borewells. Public awareness campaigns should be conducted to encourage limited water usage. Dr. Kumari underscored the effective implementation of rainwater harvesting during the approval process for new construction projects.
Karkala, Brahmavar, and Hebri taluks of Udupi district have already been declared drought-hit by the government, prompting the formation of a committee, headed by tahsildars and involving local MLAs and officials from various departments, to manage the situation. Regular fortnightly meetings have been mandated to strategize and implement drought management plans.
Addressing concerns about water scarcity for livestock, immediate action will be taken to ensure an adequate supply of fodder. Fodder kits will be distributed to farmers, and efforts will be made to grow fodder on lands belonging to the forest department, gaushala, agriculture department, and horticulture department.
Emphasizing the importance of swift decision-making, Dr. Kumari stressed the timely disposal of applications and the rigorous implementation of decisions by the District Disaster Management Authority. Non-compliance will result in actions taken under the National Disaster Management Act.
Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Prasanna H urged the preparation of a list documenting areas experiencing drinking water issues in the last five years, with corresponding preventative measures to forestall future problems. The proposal to temporarily hire private borewells for drinking water supply was also endorsed.
Kundapur Assistant Commissioner Rashmi S, Additional Deputy Commissioner Mamta Devi G.S., Municipal Commissioner Rayappa, and implementing officers from various departments were present at the meeting.
