Mysuru MLA GT Devegowda Directs Officials to Tackle Drinking Water Crisis Ahead of Summer
Former minister and Chamundeshwari MLA GT Devegowda has issued a stern directive to officials, urging them to take immediate and coordinated steps to address the pressing drinking water shortages across municipal wards, town panchayats, and councils within his constituency. The call to action comes as the region braces for the impending summer season, with Devegowda emphasizing the critical need for proactive planning to ensure an uninterrupted water supply for all residents.
Review Meeting Highlights Vulnerable Areas and Infrastructure Gaps
During a comprehensive review meeting held at the Deputy Commissioner's office, Devegowda pinpointed several vulnerable localities that are particularly at risk, including Hootagalli, RT Nagar, and Vasanth Nagar. He also drew attention to the underutilisation of a water tank constructed by the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board (KIADB) near Hootagalli, highlighting a missed opportunity to bolster water resources.
In a swift move to address this issue, the MLA engaged in a telephonic discussion with KIADB officials during the meeting, securing temporary permission to utilize the tank until a permanent connection is established under the Hale Unduwadi project. Deputy Commissioner G Lakshmikanth Reddy confirmed that the tank would be returned to KIADB once alternative arrangements are firmly in place, ensuring a smooth transition.
Proactive Measures and Infrastructure Development Plans
Anticipating a significant surge in water demand starting from April, Devegowda instructed officials to adopt a proactive approach, implementing preventive measures in advance rather than waiting for complaints to arise. On the infrastructure front, executive engineer Asif Iqbal Khalil provided updates on key projects aimed at strengthening the water supply system.
- A major pipeline project worth Rs 35 crore has been tendered to lay a new pipeline to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Nagar, which is expected to enhance water distribution in the area.
- Additional water allocation from the Kabini river is planned under the AMRUT 2.0 scheme, designed to fortify supply systems and meet growing demands.
Strict Adherence to Water-Sharing Norms and Sustainable Management
Deputy Commissioner Reddy issued a directive to the Mysuru City Corporation and the Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA), mandating strict adherence to water-sharing norms to prevent any artificial scarcity. He emphasized that the 45 million liters per day (MLD) available under the Kabini Phase II project must be distributed as allocated to Hootagalli, Srirampura, and Bogadi, ensuring equitable access for all communities.
For sustainable water management, Reddy suggested that local bodies should procure their own water tankers instead of relying on rentals, a move that could lead to long-term cost savings and improved efficiency. He assured immediate administrative approval for proposals related to new borewells and tanker purchases, aiming to mitigate the impending summer crisis effectively.
The coordinated efforts outlined in the meeting reflect a comprehensive strategy to tackle water shortages, combining temporary solutions with long-term infrastructure investments to safeguard Mysuru's water security during the challenging summer months.
