Udupi: As many as 93 of the 155 gram panchayats and 24 wards under town panchayats in the district are likely to face drinking water shortages during the summer, according to officials. Deputy Commissioner T.K. Swaroopa on Thursday directed authorities to take preventive measures to ensure that residents do not face severe water scarcity in the coming months.
The directive was issued during a meeting of the District Disaster Management Committee held at Rajatadri, the district office complex in Manipal, where officials reviewed preparedness for summer-related challenges, particularly drinking water supply.
Review meeting held at district office
Chairing the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner instructed officials from various departments to closely monitor water sources and prepare contingency plans in areas that are likely to face shortages.
Officials were asked to identify vulnerable locations in advance and ensure that necessary arrangements such as water supply through tankers, repair of borewells and maintenance of water supply systems are carried out without delay.
The district administration emphasised the need for coordinated action to prevent inconvenience to residents during the peak summer months.
Taluk-wise areas likely to face shortage
According to reports presented at the meeting, several gram panchayats across different taluks are expected to face drinking water shortages.
A total of 14 gram panchayats in Karkala taluk are likely to experience water scarcity. Kundapur taluk has the highest number of affected areas, with 36 gram panchayats expected to face shortages.
In Byndoor taluk, 15 gram panchayats may face water supply problems, while nine gram panchayats in Udupi taluk are also likely to be affected.
Similarly, 13 gram panchayats in Brahmavara taluk, four in Kapu taluk and two in Hebri taluk are projected to face drinking water shortages during the summer season.
Town panchayat wards also affected
Apart from rural areas, several urban local bodies under town panchayats are also likely to face water supply issues.
Officials informed the meeting that five wards in Saligrama Town Panchayat may experience drinking water shortages.
In Byndoor Town Panchayat, 19 wards are expected to face water scarcity during the summer months.
The administration has asked local authorities to prepare action plans to ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply in these areas.
Preventive steps to be taken
The Deputy Commissioner directed officials to take proactive measures to prevent water crises in the identified locations.
Departments concerned were instructed to inspect existing water supply infrastructure, repair damaged pipelines and ensure borewells and water sources remain functional.
Authorities were also asked to keep water tankers ready in case emergency supply becomes necessary.
Officials stressed that early preparation and coordination between departments will help minimise the impact of water shortages during the peak summer period.
Focus on summer preparedness
The District Disaster Management Committee meeting also reviewed preparedness related to other seasonal concerns such as drought conditions and emergency response systems.
Officials highlighted the importance of closely monitoring groundwater levels and ensuring that public water sources are properly maintained.
The district administration stated that it will continue to monitor the situation and take timely action to ensure that residents have access to drinking water throughout the summer.
Conclusion
With a significant number of gram panchayats and wards expected to face water shortages, authorities in the district have begun preparations to address the issue in advance. Officials expressed confidence that with proper planning and timely intervention, the impact of water scarcity can be minimised and residents can be assured of essential drinking water supply during the summer months.