As the mercury level rises, drinking water woes are turning worse in Dharwad district. Only a few days have passed since the temperature started going up but people are already queuing up to collect their share of drinking water at available water sources. The condition in most of the villages is turning critical by the day as the available natural water sources are fast drying up.
During a visit to Bhadiwad village in Hubballi taluk, women were seen waiting in long queues to collect water that is being supplied by the district administration. The villagers said that every day three tankers of water is supplied to the village and each family gets two pots of water. Those supplying water give preference to ration card holders.
Those without ration cards can collect water only later; that too, if any water is left, they said.
The condition is no different in villages such as Ingalahalli and Yerinarayanapura. Collecting drinking water has turned a gigantic task for householders in these villages. Zilla panchayat officials said that the entire district is reeling under drought due to the failure of rain both during the rabi and kharif seasons. The condition is critical in these 16 villages — Nagarahalli, Bhandiwad, Mullolli, Yerinarayanapura, Rottigewad, Kodliwad, Yaraguppi, Konkanakurahatti, Gudenakatti, Hirenarti, Shirur, Samshi, Bagawad, Kamadolli, Honnalli and Hosalli.
Arrangements have been made to supply water through tankers to these villages. The water problem is so severe this time that even the multi-village drinking water supply scheme meant to supply water to these villages had proved to be of little use, they said. The officials added that 16 more villages in the district have been identified for supplying water through tankers. Water supply would commence if the situation turns worse. The government had released Rs. 10.40 crore to tackle the situation. At present, the focus is on refilling borewells but this is not turning out as expected, the officials said.
The condition is critical in 16 villages; 16 more identified for
water supply
