Shivamogga
Water will be released into the Bhadra Right Bank Canal from September 1 to meet the drinking water needs of people and livestock in Davanagere and Channagiri taluks and support multi-village drinking water schemes.
The Regional Commissioner has ordered the release of water from the canal between September 1 and September 10. According to an official statement issued by the Superintending Engineer of the Bhadra Project Circle, 1,500 cusecs of water will be released every day during the period.
The water will be diverted to impounding reservoirs to ensure adequate drinking water supplies in the affected areas. Officials have clarified that the released water must be used strictly for drinking water purposes and cannot be diverted for irrigation or agricultural activities.
Farmers have been specifically warned against illegally drawing water from the canal. Authorities said unauthorised pumping or lifting of water would not be permitted during the release period.
The department has also issued a safety warning to the public. People have been advised not to enter or walk along the canal while water is being released. They have also been asked not to take cattle or other livestock into the canal, considering the risks associated with the increased water flow.
The decision comes amid concerns over drinking water availability in parts of Davanagere and Channagiri. Authorities said the temporary release was intended to ensure sufficient water for domestic consumption and livestock and to prevent shortages in villages dependent on the multi-village drinking water schemes.
The Drinking Water Committee of the Bhadra Reservoir Project has appealed to farmers and members of the public to cooperate with officials and follow the restrictions during the water release period.
Officials reiterated that the water allocation was meant exclusively for drinking purposes. Farmers in the command area have been asked not to use the canal water for crops under any circumstances.