Mysuru's Deputy Commissioner Bans Illegal Drawing of Water Amid Drought Challenges

Amidst extreme heat and a looming drinking water crisis in parts of Mysuru district, Deputy Commissioner of Mysuru K.V. Rajendra has issued an order to ban the illegal drawing of water from rivers and irrigation canals. 

Effective immediately, this measure aims to eliminate drinking water shortages heightened by the district's current drought conditions. The order follows concerns over unauthorized extraction of Cauvery water using pump sets along the riverbanks in Periyapatna taluk, affecting  the town's drinking water supply.

In response, the Periyapatna taluk task force convened on March 14, urging the Deputy Commissioner to call on the powers granted under the Karnataka Irrigation Act, 1965, to regulate river water usage for non-agricultural purposes during critical periods.

Under Section 46 of the Karnataka Irrigation Act, 1965, the order stipulates strict regulations prohibiting individuals, except irrigation officers, from tampering with natural stream courses or constructing bunds or weirs without authorization.

This measure highlights the gravity of the situation and the need to safeguard vital water resources for essential purposes. Furthermore, the Deputy Commissioner's action aligns with directives issued by the Chief Minister during a video conference on March 5, emphasizing the urgency of curbing illegal water extraction to address the drinking water crisis amidst the prevailing drought conditions.