Mangaluru city faces an imminent threat of a drinking water crisis as the storage at Thumbe dam diminishes steadily due to insufficient inflow in the Nethravati river. The current water reserves in the dam, which can sustain for approximately 40 days, are dwindling, prompting the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) to consider implementing water supply rationing. Thumbe dam supplies water to Mangaluru city, Ullal, Mulki, and nearby villages, making the situation critical for a significant population.
Current Situation and Contingency Plans
As of Monday, the water level in the dam stood at 4.5 meters, with its maximum capacity reaching six meters. MCC commissioner Anand CL stated that the city can maintain water supply until June 10 with the existing levels. Recent slight rise in water levels, attributed to releases from the AMR dam upstream, provided temporary relief. However, considering the impending crisis, the corporation is contemplating water supply rationing until the onset of monsoon.
Proposed Measures and Infrastructure Updates
To address the looming crisis, the MCC plans to introduce water supply rationing and install bulk meters in the city’s pipeline network originating from Thumbe dam. The installation aims to accurately monitor water usage and distribution, facilitating better management and leak detection. Anand CL announced a 24-hour disruption in water supply starting from 6 am on April 30, primarily for the bulk meter installation.
Additionally, the MCC has prepared six pumps near the downstream of Thumbe dam to pump water back if levels decrease drastically. This proactive measure is crucial to maintain sufficient water reserves. Furthermore, Deputy Commissioner Mullai Muhilan MP has imposed a prohibition on industrial and agricultural water usage from the AMR dam to conserve water resources amidst the crisis.
The collaborative efforts between civic authorities and proactive measures signify a concerted attempt to mitigate the impending water crisis and ensure sustainable water management in Mangaluru city and its surrounding areas.
