On Monday, MLA Guru Raj Gantihole chaired the quarterly KDP meeting of Kundapur taluk and warned that the region must act now to confront a looming water crisis. The gathering took place in the taluk panchayat hall, where officials presented data showing a 27% rain deficit in Baindur and a 16% shortfall in Kundapur. Accurate rain‑gauge records could have placed Kundapur on the drought list, the MLA added.
Because the monsoon failed to deliver as expected, drinking‑water supplies are being prioritised, while farmers await relief. The horticulture department reported damage to 16 gardens and loss of 4.5 acres of cultivated land. Warahi River’s Maani reservoir, with a total capacity of 31.5 TMC, now holds about 30% less water than normal, according to the chief engineer.
KDP member Hariprasad Shetty said water flow halted again after a brief resumption, prompting the irrigation department to reopen several bunds that were previously closed. Officials assured that the bunds will be reinstated quickly to restore irrigation.
MLA A. Kiran Kumar Kodgi criticised the maintenance of rain‑measurement stations, arguing that proper data could have helped secure drought‑relief funds for Kundapur. The agriculture department confirmed that a verification process is underway to consider Baindur for the drought list.
Health services also face strain: the taluk hospital reports longer waiting times for receipts and a lack of coordination among doctors. Legislators Ramesh Shetty Wakwadi and Kodgi urged an urgent doctors’ meeting and the formation of a health‑protection committee. Member Jyothi V. Putran called for the appointment of a dermatologist, noting that 20 of the 56 sanctioned health posts remain vacant.
Education officials were asked to repair dilapidated government‑school buildings before they collapse, especially since the structures double as polling stations. The local education officer said benches and desks have been shifted to nearby schools, but the gram panchayat must lead the restoration work.
Infrastructure projects also feature in the agenda. A new bridge slated for construction in Kundapur may require an additional Rs 12 crore if relocated, on top of the approved Rs 55 crore budget. MLA Kodli warned that the bridge could take two to three years to complete, urging authorities to restrict heavy‑vehicle traffic for safety. Finally, the Chituru‑Kollur road, a vital link to the Mookambika temple, remains in poor condition; Gantihole appealed for repairs before the upcoming Navaratri festival draws millions of pilgrims.
Image: kundapraa.com
📰 Source: Kundapra