Karwar: Uttara Kannada District In-Charge Minister Mankal S. Vaidya has issued strict directives to ensure that no village in the district faces a drinking water crisis this summer. He also instructed authorities to take necessary precautions to prevent fodder shortages for livestock.

Chairing a meeting at the Deputy Commissioner's office, the minister emphasized the need for proactive measures to address potential drinking water issues. He highlighted that despite the district receiving 49% more rainfall last year, certain areas might still experience water scarcity this summer.

He noted that over Rs. 1,000 crore has already been invested in drinking water projects across the district, and several villages are now benefiting from improved water supply systems. He urged officials to respond immediately if any part of the district faces a water crisis and announced the establishment of control rooms at municipal offices, taluk offices, the Zilla Panchayat, and the Deputy Commissioner's office to register complaints.

The minister warned that citizens should not be forced to buy water, as the government will ensure free water supply. If private tankers attempt to sell water, strict action will be taken against the responsible officials.

To prevent the mixing of saltwater with freshwater in the five coastal taluks of the district, the government is constructing small check dams across streams and rivers. These structures will help preserve freshwater during the dry season by controlling the inflow of saltwater.

Additionally, funds have been allocated to local urban bodies and the water supply board to ensure uninterrupted water supply for the next two years. Plans are underway to provide a 24-hour drinking water supply system.

Minister Vaidya also directed HESCOM officials to provide immediate electricity connections for drinking water projects and instructed the Forest Department to expedite necessary clearances.

The meeting was attended by Karnataka State Marketing Consultant and Agency President Satish Sail, Deputy Commissioner K. Lakshmi Priya, Zilla Panchayat CEO Ishwar Kandu, Assistant Forest Conservation Officer Ravishankar, and various other district officials.