Karnataka Minister Orders Probe Into Drying Streams in Uttara Kannada

Karwar: The alarming drying up of streams in the Nevalse forest range of Ankola taluk in Uttara Kannada district has drawn the attention of Forest and Ecology Minister Eshwar Khandre. Videos of the parched streams circulating on social media have highlighted the issue, sparking widespread concern.

In a letter dated November 22, Khandre directed the Forest Department, Environment Department and Environmental Management and Policy Research Institute (EMPRI) to form an expert committee to investigate the phenomenon and recommend solutions.

The findings by the expert committee, along with remedial measures, are to be submitted within three months.

“Despite heavier-than-usual rainfall this year, streams that typically flow until February have already dried up, signaling an impending water crisis. The government is taking this matter very seriously, especially in the context of Karnataka’s water sustainability,” Khandre stated.