The spectre of ‘Day Zero’ looms over Karnataka’s major cities, with Bengaluru, Mangaluru, and Shivamogga facing severe water scarcity issues. Environmentalists and activists closely monitor the situation as these cities teeter on the brink of a crisis.
Traditional reliance on monsoon rains to replenish water reserves has become increasingly precarious due to dwindling and erratic rainfall patterns. While Shivamogga benefits from a natural drainage system, recent shortages and protests against water supply schemes indicate looming problems. The district is already experiencing groundwater depletion due to over-exploitation for irrigating water-intensive crops like areca nut and paddy.
Shivamogga’s rapid urbanization, spurred by industrial growth and real estate expansion, exacerbates water consumption. The inauguration of Shivamogga Airport and its emerging status as a healthcare and education tourism hub contribute to this trend. However, such development comes at a cost, with the Tunga river witnessing reduced water output during failed monsoons in 2023.
Similarly, Mangaluru faces escalating water demand, relying solely on the Nethravati river. Despite the construction of a larger dam to mitigate shortages, concerns persist about future adequacy, especially considering the city’s growing population and unpredictable rainfall patterns.
Encroachments on vital water bodies along national highways further compound the issue, obstructing underground water channels and exacerbating topsoil erosion. Violations of Coastal Regulation Zones exacerbate the problem, leading to the destruction of wetlands crucial for sustaining river ecosystems and urban water supply.
Environmental activists stress the urgent need for balanced city planning and stricter enforcement of regulations to safeguard water resources for future generations.
