Karnataka, a state in southern India, is endowed with diverse water resources that are critical for its agricultural, industrial, and domestic needs. The state's rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and groundwater systems form the backbone of its socio-economic development. Despite its natural abundance, Karnataka faces challenges related to water resource management, conservation, and equitable distribution.
Geographical Context
Karnataka lies within the peninsular plateau of India, with varied topography ranging from the Western Ghats to the Deccan Plateau. These geographical features heavily influence the state's water resource distribution and utilization.
Major River Systems in Karnataka
The river systems in Karnataka can be categorized into four major basins:
1. Krishna River Basin
Origin: The Krishna River originates near Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra and flows through northern Karnataka.
Tributaries in Karnataka:
Tungabhadra: A vital tributary with significant historical and economic importance.
Bhima: A crucial river supporting agriculture in the northern districts.
Ghataprabha, Malaprabha, and Vedavathi: Rivers that play a significant role in irrigation and drinking water supply.
Usage: The Krishna basin is extensively utilized for irrigation and hydroelectric projects like the Almatti and Narayanpur Dams.
2. Cauvery River Basin
Origin: Originates at Talakaveri in the Western Ghats of Karnataka.
Tributaries:
Kabini: A lifeline for southern Karnataka.
Hemavati and Harangi: Key contributors to irrigation.
Lakshmana Tirtha: Supports ecological diversity.
Importance: The Cauvery river system supports major reservoirs like KRS (Krishna Raja Sagara) and Harangi, serving irrigation, drinking water, and hydroelectricity needs.
3. Godavari River Basin
Rivers in Karnataka: Manjra and Karanja.
Extent: The basin occupies a smaller portion of the state, primarily in the northeastern region.
4. West Flowing Rivers
Characteristics: Shorter rivers originating in the Western Ghats and draining into the Arabian Sea.
Major Rivers: Sharavathi, Netravati, Kali, and Aghanashini.
Significance: These rivers have high hydroelectric potential, with projects like the Sharavathi Hydroelectric Project.
Lakes and Tanks
Karnataka is home to numerous lakes and tanks, particularly in its urban areas.
Urban Lakes
Bengaluru Lakes: Famous examples include Ulsoor Lake, Sankey Tank, and Bellandur Lake.
Ecological Importance: These lakes act as groundwater recharge zones and biodiversity hotspots.
Irrigation Tanks
Found predominantly in the districts of Tumkur, Chitradurga, and Kolar.
Historically constructed by rulers like the Chalukyas and Hoysalas.
Reservoirs
Reservoirs play a pivotal role in irrigation, drinking water supply, and hydroelectricity generation.
Major Reservoirs
Almatti Reservoir: Built on the Krishna River, pivotal for irrigation.
Tungabhadra Reservoir: Supports multiple uses, including agriculture and drinking water.
Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS): Built on the Cauvery River, an iconic structure supporting irrigation and power.
Harangi Reservoir: Supports agricultural activities in the Kodagu district.
Groundwater Resources
Groundwater is a critical resource in Karnataka, especially in regions facing surface water shortages.
Distribution and Usage
Rich Aquifers: Found in coastal and riverine areas.
Depletion Concerns: Over-extraction in districts like Kolar and Bengaluru has led to falling water tables.
Management: Efforts are underway to promote artificial recharge and sustainable extraction practices.
Water Resource Management
Karnataka has undertaken various measures to ensure sustainable utilization and management of its water resources.
Irrigation Projects
Major Projects: Upper Krishna Project, Cauvery Basin Projects.
Impact: These projects have transformed agriculture in drought-prone regions.
Hydroelectric Projects
Karnataka is a leader in hydroelectric power generation, with projects on rivers like Sharavathi, Kali, and Netravati.
Drinking Water Supply
Urban Areas: Water supply is sourced primarily from rivers and reservoirs.
Rural Areas: Dependence on groundwater and minor irrigation tanks.
Challenges in Water Resource Management
Interstate Water Disputes
The Cauvery Water Dispute with Tamil Nadu and the Krishna River Dispute with Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra are longstanding issues.
Drought and Floods
Karnataka faces cyclic droughts in northern districts and flooding in coastal areas.
Pollution
Urban lakes, especially in Bengaluru, suffer from industrial and domestic waste pollution.
Over-extraction
Unsustainable groundwater use in certain regions threatens long-term water security.
Climate Change
Changing rainfall patterns are impacting water availability and distribution.
Government Initiatives
Karnataka Neeravari Nigam Limited (KNNL)
Manages major and medium irrigation projects in the state.
Watershed Development Program
Aims to improve groundwater recharge and soil moisture conservation.
River Basin Management
Policies focus on integrated management of river basins for equitable water distribution.
Community Participation
Programs like Jala Samvardhane Yojana Sangha (JSYS) promote community involvement in tank rejuvenation.
Future Prospects
Technological Interventions: Adoption of advanced irrigation techniques like drip and sprinkler systems.
Integrated Water Management: Strategies to harmonize surface and groundwater usage.
Renewable Energy Projects: Expansion of hydroelectric capacity in west-flowing rivers.
Policy Enhancements: Focus on resolving interstate disputes and ensuring equitable water distribution.
KPSC Notes brings Prelims and Mains programs for KPSC Prelims and KPSC Mains Exam preparation. Various Programs initiated by KPSC Notes are as follows:-- KPSC Mains Tests and Notes Program
- KPSC Prelims Exam 2024- Test Series and Notes Program
- KPSC Prelims and Mains Tests Series and Notes Program
- KPSC Detailed Complete Prelims Notes