Prioritise filling of lakes in drought-hit taluks: Minister Dr Dharam Singh

Bengaluru: In view of the prevailing drought conditions, existing lift irrigation schemes and other available water sources should be used on priority to fill feasible lakes in drought-affected taluks, Minister for Minor Irrigation, Science & Technology Dr Ajay Dharam Singh directed officials.

Chairing a progress review meeting of the Minor Irrigation and Groundwater Development Department in Bengaluru on Thursday, the Minister said the department must act swiftly to address the drought situation.

With the impact of El Nino resulting in deficient rainfall across several parts of the State this year, the Government has already declared 101 taluks as drought-affected. A few more taluks are also facing drought-like conditions and the Government is expected to take a decision on them shortly, he said.

“Filling lakes in drought-affected areas is not merely about water storage. It will support groundwater recharge, provide water for livestock and help ease local drinking water stress. Wherever water can be supplied through existing lift irrigation schemes or other available sources, immediate action should be taken,” the Minister said.

He directed officials to ensure that water presently available in lakes is not allowed to flow out or go waste unnecessarily. A comprehensive report covering the condition of lakes, feasibility of filling them, availability of water sources and the measures required should be submitted within a week, he said. Dr Ajay Dharam Singh noted that water flow in several rivers is currently declining and directed the department to immediately install gates at its barrages and vented dams.The measure would help conserve available water as river flows reduce and ensure that water is retained for use during the coming weeks, he said.

The Minister also called for greater focus on groundwater recharge measures in drought-affected and over-exploited groundwater areas.

He directed officials to undertake a special drive to install recharge shafts in lakes filled through lift irrigation schemes, check dams and barrages, to improve groundwater recharge.

Dr Ajay Dharam Singh said officials at all levels should work in close coordination in the spirit of ‘Team Karnataka’, in line with the vision of the Chief Minister.

He also directed the department to expedite pending works and give priority to projects that can provide immediate relief in drought-affected areas, with a clear focus on measurable outcomes.

The meeting was attended by Minor Irrigation and Groundwater Development Department Secretary Rajesh Amminabhavi, Minister’s Private Secretary Mallikarjun Reddy Patil, South Zone Chief Engineer Satish Kumar, North Zone Chief Engineer Anand, along with Superintending Engineers of all circles, Executive Engineers of divisions and Assistant Executive Engineers.

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