Kundapura: As the summer heat intensifies day by day, the water levels in wells, borewells, and ponds are declining. This has led to water scarcity in most villages across Kundapura and Byndoor taluks.

Several Gram Panchayats have already initiated water rationing, with supply provided once every two or three days in various locations.

While the Kundapura Town Municipality currently faces no shortage, reports of irregular water supply are emerging from wards within the Byndoor Town Panchayat limits. Out of 45 Gram Panchayats in Kundapura and 16 in Byndoor, almost all are experiencing localized issues.

Areas facing scarcity

Water problems have been reported in Hombadi Mandadi, Yadadi Matyadi, Tallur, Hemmadi, Kat Belur, Hattiyangadi, Gulvadi, Karkunje, Hosadu, Gujjadi, Gangolli, and Trasi in Kundapura taluk. Similar issues persist in Maravanthe, Navunda, Kirimanjeshwara, Kambadakone, Kergalu, Uppunda, Bijoor, and Shiruru in Byndoor. In some areas, supply duration has been slashed from two hours to just one. Saltwater intrusion is a major concern in coastal villages like Tallur and Gangolli, rendering private wells unusable. Notably, while the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) provides some relief in Kundapura, it is yet to commence in Byndoor.

Drying water bodies

Ponds and wells are drying up faster than in previous years due to the extreme heat. Water levels in the Chakra, Kubja, Souparnika, Sumanavati, and Edamavinahole rivers have also dipped significantly.

Task force meeting today

A Task Force meeting chaired by MLA Kiran Kumar Kodgi to discuss the drinking water crisis will be held at the Kundapura Taluk Panchayat Hall at 10 AM on April 16. The MLA's office has urged citizens to report any water issues via email or phone.

Demand for tanker water

Currently, no village has officially requested tanker water. However, existing sources may only last another week or two. If it does not rain, tankers will become essential by late April or early May. Numerous villages, including Kollur, Jadkal, and Shiroor, are expected to require tanker supplies soon.

Byndoor: Allegations of official negligence

Deepak Kumar Shetty, President of the Taluk Farmers' Association, has blamed official negligence for the crisis. He alleged corruption in multi-village schemes and mismanagement of the Jal Jeevan Mission. He warned of protests at the Deputy Commissioner's office if immediate action isn't taken.