Bagalkot Minister Orders Immediate Action to Avert Drinking Water Crisis Amid Drought
Minister for Large and Medium Industries and Infrastructure Development and district in-charge M.B. Patil has directed officials in Bagalkot district to work in coordination to manage the drought situation effectively. Speaking at a monsoon preparedness and disaster management meeting on Tuesday, he stressed the need for proactive measures to prevent public hardship.
“All precautionary steps should be taken to ensure that no village or town faces drinking water scarcity,” Patil said. He instructed officers to continuously monitor water sources and set up alternative supply systems if required. The minister noted that sufficient funds are available, with ₹12 crore in the Deputy Commissioner’s account for drought management.
Patil warned that officials who fail to respond promptly to distress calls from the public will face strong action. “If people report problems such as water shortage, they should be addressed immediately. Otherwise, officials will be held accountable,” he stated.
The minister directed that all drinking water supply works be carried out with a humanitarian approach. He called for a review of multi-village drinking water projects at the village level, with a report due within a month. He also emphasised the need for responsible conduct, saying that the Deputy Commissioner bears ultimate responsibility for drought management and supervision of officers.
Regarding cattle, Patil asked officials to ensure adequate fodder availability, including setting up fodder banks if necessary, and to coordinate with the Animal Husbandry Department. Noting that farmers have already begun sowing, he said scientists predict rain by July 15, but preparations must be made if rains fail.
The minister highlighted that water levels in reservoirs have dropped. Officials informed him that enough water is available in parts of the district for drinking until July 28. He instructed the Deputy Commissioner and Zilla Panchayat CEO to identify and take over government and private water sources such as borewells and wells, with compensation for private borewells used for supply.
MLAs and officials raised concerns about drinking water scarcity in various taluks. Patil assured that all issues would be addressed on priority. Among those present were Rajya Sabha member Narayanasa Bhandage, MLAs J.T. Patil, Sidhu Savadi, R.B. Thimmapur, Vijayanand Kashappanavar, Bhimasen Chimmanakatti, Umesh Meti, and other district officials.
