Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar advised citizens to prepare for water and electricity shortages
BENGALURU: Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Tuesday warned that the state could face a shortage of drinking water and electricity amid declining rainfall, asking people to be “mentally prepared” as the government steps up measures to manage the emerging drought situation. Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Shivakumar said rainfall in the state had declined significantly and urged legislators not to panic. Some people and opposition parties are trying to use this situation politically,” Shivakumar said in response to a question. The state government is preparing a report on the drought situation, Shivakumar said, stressing that the assessment should be accurate ahead of the Centre’s evaluation.
He also cautioned political parties against using the situation for political purposes. “Rainfall is declining too much. But I am requesting there is no need for MLAs to be anxious. There is no point in holding protests for political purposes. The government is more concerned than you.
The Meteorological Department had predicted rainfall for a week, but only some areas received limited rain and it was not as much as expected,” he said. Shivakumar said Karnataka was facing a drought situation along with electricity-related problems, while preparations were being made to ensure adequate drinking water supply. More announcements will be made after discussions with farmers,” he said.
“People should be mentally prepared. Arrangements are being made for drinking water supply. A special session of the state legislature has been convened for this purpose and to discuss farmers’ issues. A cabinet meeting is being held in Mangaluru this week.