Drought: Akola shuts swimming pools, bans new wells, borewells and lifting water from projects

Akola: Poor rain this year under the influence of El Niño has caused groundwater levels in the district to fall sharply, and water shortages are being felt even before winter. Collector Varsha Meena has issued a revised prohibitory order under which swimming pools in the district have been shut with immediate effect. The order will remain in force across the district until the scarcity period ends.

Digging new wells and borewells, lifting water from projects for farming and industry, and using water for public construction have also been banned. Within 500 metres of any public drinking water source, in towns and villages alike, digging a new well or borewell for private or commercial use is completely prohibited, and machinery and materials will be seized and legal action taken for digging without permission.

Lifting water for industry, business and irrigation from small, medium and large government water projects, rivers, streams and Kolhapur-type weirs has been stopped immediately. The available stock has been reserved only for drinking water, including filling tankers and regional piped schemes, and for livestock.

Source: Loksatta