Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (NJC)

Mangaluru, May 7: Karnataka Legislative Assembly speaker U T Khader has directed officials to ensure immediate electricity connections for drinking water projects without any delay, stressing the need for uninterrupted water supply in drought-prone areas.

Addressing a meeting on Thursday, May 7, Khader said several areas were facing difficulties in water supply despite the construction of water tanks and borewells, mainly due to delays in providing electricity connections.

He stated that the government has already instructed authorities to provide electricity connections without waiting for the deposit amount from local bodies. The amount can later be adjusted once grants are released to the respective gram panchayats, he added.

Khader emphasized that drinking water projects should be planned after understanding local issues and requirements. He noted that future projects must be capable of meeting the drinking water demands of the next 30 years. He also assured that efforts would be made to secure special grants if required.

The speaker said adequate funds are being provided for drinking water management. In areas where water supply through pipelines is not feasible, water should be supplied through tankers. Along with gram panchayat funds, financial assistance will also be provided through the task force, he informed.

Preparations for monsoon

Reviewing monsoon preparedness measures, Khader instructed officials to identify flood-prone and waterlogging areas in advance to ensure smooth water flow during the rainy season. He directed authorities to undertake desilting of drains and take precautionary measures in areas that witnessed natural calamities last year.

He further instructed local officials to immediately visit affected areas in case of any disaster during the monsoon season.