Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has directed district administrations to prepare for a potential monsoon deficit, warning that disruptions in drinking water supply will result in direct accountability.
A monsoon deficit is expected across the state, except for five districts, with rainfall likely to be below normal overall and near-normal precipitation expected in August and reduced rainfall in September.
The administration has identified 213 taluks and 2,410 gram panchayats as vulnerable this summer, with 114 taluks and 598 gram panchayats currently facing drinking water shortages.
Water is being supplied to 137 villages through 129 tankers, and 585 private borewells have been hired to cover 515 villages.
The chief minister has also directed officials to prioritize drinking water over irrigation and to ensure uninterrupted power supply to all RO units.
Additionally, he has warned of possible disruptions in fertiliser supply due to geopolitical tensions and has directed officials to ensure continued fodder availability.
