Mumbai, April 18: In response to escalating complaints about severe heat and water shortages, the Jabalpur district administration has declared the entire district a ‘water crisis area’ until June 30.
District Magistrate Raghavendra Singh issued a notification on Friday, emphasizing that this measure aims to ensure equitable distribution of drinking water and prevent the situation from worsening.
The administration stated that the declaration is intended to guarantee fair access to drinking water in both rural and urban areas, addressing public needs during the summer season.
Concerns have risen regarding the availability of drinking water in the coming weeks due to rapid depletion of groundwater levels caused by excessive extraction. Tube wells and other water sources are under pressure, prompting the administration to reserve all major water sources exclusively for drinking and domestic use.
According to the order, all rivers, streams, dams, and public water sources are now reserved for essential use only. Any non-essential use without permission is strictly prohibited.
Strict controls on groundwater extraction have also been implemented. The order states that no individual shall construct a new tube well without prior permission. Applications for drilling will be scrutinized by sub-divisional revenue officers after proper verification.
Officials have warned of stringent legal action against violators. This order will be enforced under the Madhya Pradesh Drinking Water Conservation Act and provisions of the Indian Penal Code. Authorities have assured that regular monitoring will be conducted to ensure compliance.
Emergency provisions have also been included in the order. It states that if public water sources dry up, private water sources may be temporarily acquired to maintain supply. This measure aims to ensure that no area faces a complete water shortage.
This decision comes amid reports of irregular water supply in several parts of the district, with rising temperatures leading to a significant increase in water demand.
The administration has appealed to the public for cooperation, stressing that water conservation is essential for effectively managing this situation.
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