DHARMAPURI: Karimangalam farmers have urged the district administration to take steps to ensure that water released from the KRP dam reaches 22 lakes in the region.
The KRP dam in Krishnagiri is a key source of water for residents of Karimangalam taluk. Water released from the dam is transported through the right canal and arrives in Dharmapuri near Kumbarahalli panchayat. However, over the past few years, 22 lakes that are fed by the dam have not reached maximum capacity. Therefore, farmers are urging the administration to ensure water reaches these lakes in Karimangalam.
Speaking to TNIE, A Murugesan from Karimangalam said, "We have been facing severe water shortage due to groundwater depletion, which has in turn led to lakes drying up, leading to an intense drought in the area. Therefore, efforts must be taken to ensure that the lakes in the area are sufficiently supplied."
A petition filed by farmers and Dharmapuri MLA SP Venkateswaran stated, "In Kumbarahalli panchayat near Manikattiyur, NH 44 splits canals into two segments. One side leads to Karimangalam town panchayat, Sikkathimmanahalli lake in Adilam panchayat, and Karagapatti lake in Bandarahalli panchayat. The other side takes water to Maniakkattiyur in Kumbarahalli panchayat, Thindal lake, Keelsowlupatti, Mannadipatti lake, and other lakes. We urge the PWD (WRD) to take steps to ensure that all 22 lakes in Karimangalam and its surroundings are filled before the water supply is cut off. Due to recent rainfall, the KRP dam has been releasing water for the past few weeks. We urge the PWD (WRD) to ensure lakes are properly supplied."
When TNIE reached out to PWD(WRD) officials, they said they would look into the matter and take necessary steps.