Bengaluru: The Karnataka government has identified 1,119 villages across the state as vulnerable to drinking water scarcity and has directed district administrations to take immediate measures to ensure uninterrupted water supply during the ongoing monsoon deficit.
The assessment was made during a review meeting chaired by senior officials, as the state continues to face concerns over inadequate rainfall and declining water availability in several regions. Authorities have been instructed to closely monitor the situation and respond swiftly to any emerging shortages.
Districts asked to prepare contingency plans
Officials have been directed to implement contingency measures, including supplying water through tankers wherever required, hiring private borewells if necessary and ensuring that existing drinking water sources remain functional.
The government has also instructed district administrations to regularly monitor vulnerable villages and resolve drinking water complaints on priority to prevent hardship for residents.
Focus on preventing a summer-like crisis
The move comes amid concerns over below-normal rainfall in parts of Karnataka, which has raised fears of a prolonged water shortage if weather conditions do not improve. The state has already prepared emergency action plans and allocated funds to districts to tackle any worsening situation.
Officials said departments have been asked to work in coordination to ensure safe drinking water reaches every affected village while also encouraging conservation and efficient use of available resources.
Government steps up monitoring
The Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department is expected to closely monitor the situation across vulnerable areas and take corrective measures wherever shortages are reported.
With rainfall remaining uneven in several parts of Karnataka, the government has emphasised that timely intervention and coordinated action will be crucial to preventing a larger drinking water crisis in the months ahead.