The concentration of 210Po and 210Pb has been measured by the chemical deposition method in surface water samples from the major rivers of coastal Karnataka: Kali, Sharavathi and Netravathi. Measurements
of 210Po and 210Pb in surface water from these rivers are important because river water is the main source of potable water in this region due to inadequate supply of treated water.
The water-level of Netravati river, which is a prominent water source for the district, is reducing considerably that it may dry up completely within few days.
Thousands of residents in Belthangady, Bantwal and Mangalore taluk depend on Netravati river for agriculture and other purposes. Due to reduction in rainfall, the river flow has been reduced considerably.
Efforts are on to find a permanent solution to drinking water crisis in Pavgad taluk. A survey has been ordered on diverting water from Netravati to Pavagad, said Minister for Sericultue and Small-scale Industries Venkataramanappa.
District-in-Charge Minister Krishna J Palemar laid foundation stone for the most awaited second vented dam across river Nethravathi near Thumbe on Monday.
