Karnataka Orders Strict Water Safety Measures for Monsoon

Amidst monsoon fears, the Karnataka government has issued a stringent warning to panchayats, emphasizing the urgent, non-negotiable responsibility to ensure drinking water safety in rural areas. Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Eshwar B. Khandre stressed that any lapse leading to contamination will not be tolerated, citing past incidents of water-borne disease deaths. All water samples will now be regularly tested in NABL-accredited laboratories to prevent contamination of the public distribution network.

Khandre directed officials to prevent rivers, lakes, and ponds from becoming contamination conduits and to clear encroachments on departmental tanks. Immediate steps are to be taken to stop sewage and industrial effluent discharge into water bodies, especially during heavy rains. Long-term planning for sustainable water security is underway, with measures to protect all rural water sources from pollution and degradation.

Addressing e-Swathu server issues, the minister called for swift technical intervention to improve service delivery. Furthermore, all assets under the Rural Development Department and Rural Infrastructure Development Corporation must be geo-tagged for transparency and to prevent misuse. Audits of MGNREGA-supported social forestry plantations, including roadside saplings, will also be conducted after geo-tagging.