Following a comprehensive survey, the district administration of Dharwad has identified 78 villages vulnerable to water scarcity during the upcoming summer months. Deputy Commissioner Divya Prabhu GRJ has directed tahsildars and Taluk Panchayat officials to implement preventive measures to ensure adequate water supply during the hot season.
In a review meeting held in Dharwad on Monday, the Deputy Commissioner emphasized the need for proactive steps to address potential issues related to drinking water and fodder supply. She instructed all taluk panchayats and urban local bodies to establish helplines to register complaints regarding shortages of drinking water or fodder.
The survey revealed that several villages across different taluks are at risk of water shortages. Specifically, 30 villages in Dharwad taluk, 4 in Alnavar taluk, 19 in Hubballi taluk, 16 in Kalghatgi taluk, and 9 in Kundagol taluk have been identified as areas prone to water scarcity. A breakdown shows that in March, 29 villages are likely to face a water shortage, followed by 26 in April and 23 in May.
To combat this, private borewells have been identified as an alternative water source, with a total of 162 private borewells being secured through agreements with owners. Currently, no villages in the district require tanker water supply, though emergency measures are in place if needed. In places like Noolvi village in Hubballi taluk, water is being supplied to some wards through a private borewell.
On the fodder front, the district has sufficient stock to meet the needs of its 2,33,461 cattle and 1,53,938 sheep and goats. With 3,84,872 tonnes of fodder available, there is enough to last for the next 37 weeks. The DC also instructed the authorities to ensure that fodder is distributed efficiently based on demand from farmers.
Further measures include ensuring clean drinking water free from contamination, as the summer months increase the risk of waterborne diseases. Reservoirs in several taluks—such as Navalgund, Annigeri, Hubballi, and Kundagol—have been replenished using Malaprabha canal water, with 60 reservoirs refilled. These will be used in the coming months to supply drinking water, with 10 reservoirs slated for use in April and 50 in May.
Municipal corporations, town panchayats, and city councils have been urged to remain vigilant and respond promptly to any water-related issues that arise during the summer months.
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