Mandya: The state govt on Thursday released 500 cusecs of water from the KRS reservoir into the Visvesvaraya Canal (VC) to replenish lakes and ponds and ensure drinking water, in the Cauvery command area. The govt has clarified that the release is exclusively for drinking water purposes and not for irrigation, directing farmers not to utilise the water for agriculture.The decision follows sustained protests by farmers across Mandya district, who were demanding the immediate release of water into the canal network to protect standing crops, particularly sugarcane, from the prolonged dry spell.Speaking to TOI, K Raghuram, superintendent engineer, KRS dam, said the water was released as per the govt’s directions for drinking water needs. He noted that a large number of borewells have gone dry due to poor rainfall this year, making it essential to conserve every drop of water. “Water release began on Thursday evening. Since rainfall has been scanty, everyone must use water judiciously. The release will depend on future rainfall and the prevailing reservoir situation,” he said.Farmer leader Kuruburu Shanthakumar urged the govt to immediately release water for irrigation as well. “Providing drinking water is essential, but saving standing crops is equally important. If water is not released for irrigation at the earliest, farmers, especially sugarcane growers, will face severe hardship and heavy losses,” he said.As on Thursday, the dam’s water level was 92.90 ft as against its maximum level of 124.8 ft. The dam is receiving 1,909 cusecs.
