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Belagavi water supply can be maintained by a chain of wells – Dr. M. Vishveshwarayya

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By uday

As summer approaches, the scorching heat and the availability of clean drinking water become a major concern for everyone. Unfortunately, this year, the water woes have arrived earlier than expected, as the erratic water supply by L&T Belagavi has caused significant problems since February. The situation has been exacerbated by the fact that the current water level in Rakaskop has decreased compared to last year, due to less rainfall.

Interestingly, Dr. M. Vishveshwarayya, the mastermind behind the Rakaskop Scheme, had predicted this issue in his report’s preamble. He suggested that a chain of wells could maintain the Belagavi water supply. Before the Rakaskop scheme, the city relied on well water, with most of these wells being constructed during the British Raj, almost 100 to 200 years ago.

In 1964, the introduction of piped water in Belagavi left households uncertain about connecting to the pipeline. Despite efforts to persuade residents, they remained hesitant. The divisional commissioner at the time believed he had a solution to this problem. He ordered the closure of wells, hoping to force residents to connect to the pipeline. Ironically, 50 years later, the government had to work tirelessly to reopen these same wells.

Khanjar Galli
Khanjar Galli well

Ground Water Resources Assessment 2022 data source: Central Ground Water Board (CGWB)

Ground Water Resources Assessment 2022
Categorization (OverExploitedE/Critical/ SemiCritical/Safe/Saline)
AthaniSemi-Critical
BailhongalOver-Exploited
BelagaviSafe
ChikkodiSemi-Critical
GokakSemi-Critical
HukkeriSemi-Critical
KagwadCritical
KhanapurSafe
KitturSafe
NippaniSafe
RaibagSafe
RamdurgSafe
SavdattiCritical
YargattiSemi Critical
Screenshot from 2023 03 22 11 38 37
Screenshot from 2023 03 22 11 40 05

The Open Well Project is a remarkable local initiative that leverages innovation to revolutionize public services, address a pressing local issue, and enhance the quality of life in a Tier II city. However, the focus has shifted towards bore wells, and both the government and residents are digging numerous bore wells independently.

The Open Well Project is a shining example of how local communities can come together to tackle local challenges. By harnessing local innovation, this initiative has the potential to transform public services and improve the lives of citizens in a Tier II city. However, despite its success, the project now faces a new challenge. The government and residents have shifted their focus towards bore wells, and many are digging them independently, without proper planning or oversight.

While bore wells may seem like a quick fix, they can have serious consequences for the environment and the community. The unregulated digging of bore wells can lead to groundwater depletion, soil erosion, and even land subsidence. Moreover, the lack of proper planning and management can result in conflicts over water resources and exacerbate existing social and economic inequalities.

To ensure sustainable development and equitable access to resources, it is crucial to prioritize the Open Well Project and other similar initiatives. By investing in local innovation and community-driven solutions, we can create a brighter future for all.

Instead of relying on borewells, the government should consider traditional wells that are 40-50 feet deep. These wells have the potential to yield four times more groundwater after rainfall than borewells. It’s important to recognize that drilling more borewells is not the solution to our water crisis. Instead, the government should invest in “dug wells” that can be constructed in just one month with the help of machinery and labor.

These wells, which can also serve as storage tanks, should be dug up to the soil zone while leaving the rock zone untouched. This approach allows water from the saturated soil to enter the well, which can then be used to recharge groundwater. By implementing this strategy, we can ensure that we have a reliable source of water even during times of drought.

It is imperative to recharge borewells, and it should be mandated by law. Recharging them is essential to ensure a sustainable supply of water. Therefore, it is necessary to make it compulsory for individuals and organizations to recharge their borewells regularly.

By implementing this requirement, we can ensure that our groundwater resources are conserved and protected for future generations. It is a small but significant step towards achieving a more sustainable and responsible use of our natural resources.

Let us all take responsibility for our water resources and make recharging of borewells a priority. Together, we can create a better and more sustainable future for ourselves and our planet.

To address the current water crisis, it is essential to explore alternative solutions and implement them promptly. The situation demands immediate attention, and the authorities must take necessary measures to ensure that the citizens of Belagavi have access to clean drinking water throughout the year.

High yielding wells

1. Open well at Veerbhadranagar.
2. Open well at Goods shed Road Shastrinagar.
3. Open well at Congress Road.
4. Open well at Shetty galli.
5. Open well at Kirloskar Road.
6. Open well at Shivaji Garden, Shahapur.
7. Open well at Math galli.
8. Open well at Nazar camp, Vadgaon.
09. Open well at Rayat galli, Vadgaon.
10. Open well at Polytechnic premises Kakatives.
11. Open well at Darga premises Kamat galli.
12. Open well at Khanjar galli.
13. Open well at Kasai galli.
14. Open well at Joshi Mala.
15. Open well at Teggin galli, Vadgaon.
16. Open well at Konwal Galli.
17. Open well at Samartha Nagar.
18. Open well at PWD Quarters.
19. Open well at Alwan Galli.

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