Karnataka HC Tells State To List Out Steps Taken To Provide Drinking Water To Bidar District Talukas

The Karnataka High Court on Tuesday directed the state government to list out steps taken by it to provide drinking water to two talukas in Bidrai district.

A division bench of Chief Justice Abhay Oka and Justice H T Narendra Prasad, observed that "Right to have drinking water is a part of Right guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India. "

The bench was hearing a petition filed by one Gurunath Vade who claimed that residents of Aurad (B) and Kamalnagar Taluka in Bidar district are facing severe drinking water shortage. Their representations made to the government for providing a direct water supply pipeline from the Karanja water reservoir are both being addressed.

The petition stated that the Manjra river has been completely dried out and thus water is not being supplied to the two talukas. The petition prayed for directions to the authorities Urban Development department, in charge Minister Bidar district and Chief Secretary to sanction drinking water supply directly from the Karanja water reservoir.

The counsel for the state argued that it would have to be a policy decision which needs to be taken by the government as the laying of pipe line would require a huge investment. It was also pointed to the court that water is being provided through tankers and bore wells, thus there is no acute scarcity.