Water Crisis Hits Karnataka's Growing Cities
Several tier 2 and tier 3 cities across Karnataka are currently facing significant challenges in providing residents with safe drinking water and adequate sanitation services. The situation has reached a critical point where immediate and long-term interventions are necessary to prevent a full-blown public health crisis.
Official Sounds Alarm on Infrastructure Planning
U Nalinakshi, the chief engineer of the Karnataka Urban Water Supply and Drainage Board (KUWSDB), has publicly emphasized the urgent need for strategic long-term planning in these developing urban centers. She specifically stressed the importance of reserving dedicated areas for water treatment facilities to meet future demands.
The warning was issued on 19 November 2025, highlighting a growing concern that has been developing over time. Without proper foresight and land allocation for essential infrastructure, these cities risk being unable to support their expanding populations.
The Consequences of Inadequate Planning
The struggle to provide basic services like clean drinking water and functional sanitation poses serious health risks to communities. Contaminated water can lead to the spread of waterborne diseases, while poor sanitation infrastructure creates unsanitary living conditions.
Experts argue that the solution lies in proactive measures rather than reactive fixes. Long-term planning for water treatment is not just a matter of convenience but a fundamental requirement for sustainable urban development and public welfare in Karnataka's non-metro cities.
