Udupi becomes second city in coastal Karnataka to announce water rationing

The decision on water rationing will be reviewed periodically until the reservoir regains its fullest levels, the official said.

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Water rationing in Mangaluru

The district administration and the Mangaluru City Corporation had decided to introduce water rationing in the city, as water levels in the city’s only water source, the Thumbe reservoir, have fallen, officials have said.

At a meeting held on 4 May, the administration announced that the city will receive water only once in two days for domestic use, as part of the water rationing system.

The administration has also advised citizens not to waste water, and to utilise the water only for necessary domestic purposes. Those found using tap water for watering gardens, washing vehicles, and other such unproductive purposes will be penalised, it warned.

According to the officials, this is the first time in five years that Mangaluru city has faced this situation. The last time was in 2019 when the monsoons were delayed, and the city administration nearly imposed water rationing. Luckily, the heavens opened up in the last week of May, and the restrictive measure was not needed.

But this time, taking stock of the dwindling water levels in the city’s only water source, the Thumbe reservoir, Deputy Commissioner Mullai Muhilan and his officials have quickly taken steps to ensure that the water lasts and is therefore distributing it with certain restrictions.

(With PTI inputs)