Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru/Udupi

Mangaluru/Udupi, Apr 12: The recent spell of widespread summer rains across most parts of Dakshina Kannada (DK) and Udupi districts has sparked hope of easing water-related concerns. Over the past two weeks, the consistent rainfall has raised expectations that there may be no drinking water shortage this summer.

While there were a few days of rain in February, March witnessed week-long showers, and now, with the onset of April, several areas are receiving significant rainfall. For the past three days, heavy evening showers have been reported uniformly across many parts of the region.

The Western Ghats regions of Sullia, Kadaba, and Beltangady taluks have received substantially higher rainfall compared to other parts of the district—nearly four times more. Since the last week of March, these areas have experienced daily evening showers. Puttur taluk has also received satisfactory rainfall, while Bantwal has seen intermittent heavy downpours.

In March, meetings concerning drinking water supply were held at the district level in Mangaluru, Puttur, Sullia, Kadaba, Beltangady, and Bantwal under the leadership of respective MLAs. Precautionary measures regarding water management were discussed in KDP meetings.

Areca nut growers in Sullia, Puttur, and Beltangady taluks are expressing relief over the current water availability. Farmers in Sullia, in particular, have had to use pumps far less frequently this year.

The steady summer rains have increased soil moisture in the catchment areas of the region's rivers. If the rains continue, not only will riverbanks avoid drying up, but the showers will also help increase the water levels in Thumbay Dam—a key source for drinking water supply to Mangaluru City Corporation.

Authorities have held several meetings and issued clear instructions regarding drinking water management. Panchayat Development Officers (PDOs) have been made responsible for addressing water issues in their respective areas.