Karnataka is facing a difficult drought situation, with crop damage and declining groundwater levels reported from several parts of the state. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has said the government will not rush the process of declaring additional taluks as drought affected.
According to Shivakumar, more than 200 taluks are facing drought like conditions, while 102 taluks have already been officially declared drought affected. Assessments are continuing in other areas, and the remaining declarations will be made according to the guidelines laid down by the central government.
Shivakumar said he had personally visited several areas to assess the situation. He noted that crops have been damaged in many locations, while farmers in some places have been unable to sow new crops because of inadequate water availability.
The situation could also put additional pressure on drinking water and electricity supplies in the coming days. Shivakumar said the government was already monitoring the electricity situation as demand has increased considerably.
He said electricity demand crossed 19,000 megawatts last week, with consumption particularly high during night hours. The government has asked the Energy Department to explore discussions with neighbouring states to manage the expected requirement.
Shivakumar also recalled measures taken to increase electricity generation during his earlier tenure as Energy Minister. He said Karnataka needs to strengthen generation capacity and suggested that thermal power facilities could be developed quickly in areas where coal reserves are available.
He also pointed to the One Nation One Grid system, saying electricity generated in another part of the country can be brought to Karnataka when required. However, he acknowledged that transporting electricity would involve additional supply costs.
The Deputy Chief Minister said he had already held discussions with the Energy Minister and department officials regarding the situation. The government is expected to examine both electricity availability and future demand as the drought conditions continue.
Meanwhile, the state government is preparing for a cabinet meeting in Dakshina Kannada on September 18. Shivakumar said legislators and ministers from the region had shared several suggestions concerning development and employment.
He said the government would look at ways to use the regions natural resources responsibly and create more opportunities for local residents. One of the stated aims is to reduce the need for people from the coastal region to leave their home districts in search of employment.
Shivakumar also spoke about the special legislative session scheduled from September 21 to 23. The session is expected to discuss issues concerning farmers and the Kasturirangan recommendations.
He claimed that concerns have been raised not only by Congress legislators but also by members of the BJP. According to him, several legislators have expressed their views about the difficulties faced by people in their constituencies.
The Deputy Chief Minister said political differences should not prevent discussions on issues affecting farmers and the state. He also said Karnataka continues to attract companies looking to invest, with investors seeking access to electricity, water and land.
The government now faces the challenge of managing drought conditions while maintaining essential services and supporting agricultural communities. Officials are expected to continue field assessments before deciding which additional taluks meet the criteria for an official drought declaration.
