Karnataka Drought Reviews: Tungabhadra Water Release Decision Looms

Ministers in Karnataka conducted intensive reviews of drought conditions across the Raichur and Sandur regions on Thursday. Minister Nagendra inspected affected areas in Sandur and assured farmers of immediate relief measures to mitigate the impact of the dry spell. During his visit, he emphasized that the Tungabhadra Irrigation Consultative Committee would convene a crucial meeting once the Tungabhadra reservoir storage reaches the 80 tmcft mark. This specific storage level remains the primary prerequisite for finalized water release schedules for local agricultural needs.

In Raichur, Minister Ajay Dharam Singh led a comprehensive review session at the University of Agricultural Sciences guest house. The meeting included key district officials such as Deputy Commissioner Poovitha S and various administrative heads to assess regional crop health. Discussions focused on evaluating current damage and ensuring that groundwater levels are monitored amidst the prevailing shortage of rainfall. The administration is currently mapping water-stressed talukas to prioritize the distribution of tankers and financial aid to marginal farmers in the most severely affected blocks.

The state government is now awaiting the necessary storage buildup in the Tungabhadra reservoir to alleviate irrigation distress for the current season. Farmers in North Karnataka are particularly reliant on these upcoming decisions to plan their sowing cycles and protect existing crops. Officials have been directed to streamline the drought compensation process to prevent procedural delays in fund disbursement. The upcoming committee meeting will determine the exact quantum of water allocated for canal-based irrigation, which is vital for the region's overall agricultural economy.