Destruction at sources of Cauvery: Time to take suitable steps to conserve water

Sir,

This year KRS Dam has filled to the brim, and quite early too. Mysureans are seen using water luxuriously inside and all round their houses. We are accustomed to be callous in this area any way !

However, it is right time to take suitable steps to conserve water. Heavy rains have resulted in devastating floods and landslides in Kodagu, the birth place of River Cauvery [SOM dated 17.9.2018]. The extent of destruction is yet to be assessed properly. However, badly affected areas in Kodagu are already finding that the underground water table has slipped deeply, the sources of Cauvery and its tributaries have dried out and the normal course of flow have been obstructed by huge landslides, thereby leading to change in the direction of river’s flow. This is a frightening scenario and a very serious warning to entire Cauvery Basin areas. More so to Mysuru and Bengaluru which are fully dependent on Cauvery water.

Therefore, when KRS Dam is full, it is right time to ring warning bell to people in Mysuru and Bengaluru that some summer, we may have severe water scarcity. MCC and other authorities concerned should immediately take necessary steps to conserve water in a manner that supply can be controlled till next rainy season. They have to take steps to see that there is no wastage in pumping and distribution system. Also ensure that the public uses water judiciously.

It is time that Government takes Vani Vilas Water Works (VVWW) away from the control of MCC and hands it over to an autonomous body like in Bengaluru. This alone will ensure that water supply is maintained scientifically and does not become a political tool.

Water rates have to be revised to make water prices deterrent enough for people not to waste water. The way river bed sand has been handled is an example in this regard. After all, water is more precious a nature’s gift than sand. And, therefore, needs scientific pricing. VVWW should ensure that all houses are metered and water cess is collected.

At present water supply to Mysuru is from the outflow of KRS Dam. It has several limitations. First, it depends on courtesy, Irrigation Department. Second, on natural flow of water coming out of KRS. During low storage at the Dam this flow becomes extremely scanty and leads to inadequate water for pumping. Only solution for this problem is to pick up water from the backwaters of the Dam. And for this to happen, Government should immediately take up Hale Unduwadi water supply project. Since under this works water will be picked up from the backwaters of KRS, this project will ensure year round water supply to Mysuru.