42 pc rainfall deficit hits Karnataka; 826 villages face drinking water crisis: Minister
The state government has already released Rs 117 crore in advance to address the situation, Eshwar Khandre added
Bengaluru, Jun 24 (PTI) Karnataka Minister Eshwar Khandre on Wednesday said the state had recorded a 42 per cent rainfall deficit so far this year and that groundwater levels had declined significantly.
He said 826 villages were currently facing drinking water shortages due to inadequate rainfall, but assured that there was no shortage of funds to ensure water supply.
"Due to the impact of El Nino, Karnataka has recorded a 42 per cent rainfall deficit so far this year. Groundwater levels have also declined significantly," the state rural development and panchayat raj minister said.
Speaking to reporters after a meeting with senior officials here, he said around 1,000 villages had faced drinking water shortages during the previous summer, prompting the government to supply water and drill new borewells.
"At present, 826 villages are experiencing drinking water shortages due to inadequate rainfall. However, there is no shortage of funds for water supply," he said.
The state government has already released Rs 117 crore in advance to address the situation, he added.
The minister said officials had been directed to amend regulations to facilitate the issuance of e-Khatas (digital property records) for old houses in Gramathana (village settlement) areas that lack ownership documents.
He said around 65 lakh properties in Karnataka fall within Gramathana limits.
Many of these properties have been passed down through generations, and some owners do not possess formal ownership documents.
To address the issue, officials have been instructed to simplify the rules as a one-time measure, invite public objections and complete the issuance of e-Khatas for Gramathana properties within 100 days. PTI