Priyank Kharge | Photo credit: File photo
The Karnataka government has stepped up efforts to address drinking water scarcity in rural areas during the summer with coordinated measures aimed at ensuring early intervention and effective management, said Priyank Kharge, Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj and Information Technology and Biotechnology.
As part of the measure, all zilla panchayat chief executives (CEOs) have been directed to hold mandatory review meetings with Panchayat Development Officers (PDOs) every second and fourth Monday for the next three months to assess the ground reality. In addition, district authorities will hold press briefings on the second and fourth Tuesdays to inform the public of the measures taken, according to a report released on Friday (March 20).
“To strengthen preparedness, we have directed all districts to set up 24/7 dispatch centers with dedicated personnel and to create rapid manpower at taluk level for immediate response to drinking water issues,” Mr. Kharge added.
Officials have also been directed to conduct 100% physical inspection of drinking water sources in rural areas. Measures have been proposed to prevent contamination, including ensuring proper drainage around boreholes, preventing sewage stagnation, and building protective concrete platforms around water sources.
“Officials must take steps to educate villagers about maintaining hygiene and efficient management of water resources,” the minister said.
As summer conditions lead to the drying up of water sources and reduction in the yield of wells, a shortage of drinking water has already been reported in several rural parts of the state.
To effectively manage the situation, officials have been instructed to conduct physical verification of all water sources, prevent contamination near boreholes with proper drainage systems, provide protective infrastructure around water sources, and create awareness among villagers about water safety and conservation.
Published – 20 March 2026 21:02 IST
