Karnataka expects above-average rainfall this monsoon season

A meeting of Karnataka's Cabinet sub-committee was held on Thursday to discuss preparations for an expected above-average monsoon. The meeting was led by Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda. Officials shared that several districts in north Karnataka have already seen good pre-monsoon rains. The monsoon season is projected to bring more rainfall than usual from July to September, which is encouraging news for agriculture. Currently, the major reservoirs in Karnataka hold 422.11 tmcft of water. This is significantly higher than last year, when the level was 280.02 tmcft. Despite the good water levels overall, Minister Gowda expressed worries about some dams having inadequate water. He stressed the importance of accounting for water losses from evaporation in the coming months. He directed that drinking water needs should take priority over irrigation. The meeting also highlighted 12 districts at risk of severe drinking water shortages. These districts include Bengaluru Urban, Bengaluru Rural, and Ramanagara. Officials were instructed to address issues with reverse osmosis (RO) drinking water units in Bengaluru, ensuring they have a reliable power supply and prompt repairs when necessary.