Mandya issues directives to ensure rural drinking water supply

Mandya: With summer intensifying across the district, zilla panchayat chief executive officer KR Nandini has issued comprehensive directives to ensure an uninterrupted drinking water supply in rural areas.She said around 289 villages have been identified as vulnerable to potential water shortages. Chairing a video conference, the CEO instructed panchayat development officers (PDOs), executive officers (EOs) and officials of the rural drinking water and sanitation department to adopt proactive and preventive measures.As an immediate step, alternative water arrangements through private borewells have already been initiated in 13 villages. Officials have been directed to replicate these measures in all at-risk areas without delay.Emphasising preparedness, Nandini outlined corrective steps in the event of declining borewell yields. These include deepening existing borewells, installing additional pipelines and ensuring timely electrical connections. She also stressed the need for the immediate repair of faulty pumps and motors.Regular inspections of water infrastructure—such as borewells, pump sets and overhead tanks—within gram panchayat limits have been made mandatory to prevent service disruptions.In severely affected areas, officials have been instructed to arrange alternative water supply through tankers on priority. Highlighting public health concerns amid the ongoing heatwave, the CEO urged gram panchayats to conduct awareness campaigns. Citizens have been advised to avoid outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated and rest in shaded areas.For effective monitoring, weekly review meetings will be held every Monday with all PDOs. Nandini also called on officials to actively promote water conservation practices and urged residents to use water judiciously during the summer.The meeting was attended by project director Sundar Raj and other district officials via video conferencing.HelplineDedicated helplines have been set up at both district and taluk levels. Residents can contact the district helpline at 9480872005 or approach their respective taluk helplines for immediate assistance related to water supply issues.