HD Kumaraswamy Directs Mandya DC to Use KRS Water for Lake Refill

Speedy Summary

• Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D.Kumaraswamy, instructed Mandya Deputy Commissioner Kumar to fill district lakes amid increased water discharge from Krishnaraja Sagar (KRS).
• The directive follows heavy rains in the KRS catchment area in Kodagu, resulting in the reservoir reaching full capacity of 124.8 ft.
• Complaints from farmers indicated that lakes across several parts of Mandya district remained unfilled despite earlier instructions at a DISHA meeting.
• The Union Minister contacted the Deputy Commissioner over phone from New Delhi after observing reports on increased outflow from KRS.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The directive to fill up lakes in Mandya highlights a recurring issue of equitable water distribution and preparedness during periods of surplus. Ensuring rural farmers benefit adequately is crucial given their dependence on local reservoirs for agricultural needs. This intervention underscores the role governance must play not just during scarcity but also when favorable conditions like excess inflows arise. Instituting clear accountability measures may help address farmer complaints and enhance water utilization efficiency moving forward.

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