This paper is aimed at understanding the drinking water status and management approaches adopted in four coastal villages of Karnataka. Saltwater intrusion, seasonal scarcity and groundwater depletion are the common problems encountered
here. Collective action, successful institutional set up and water harvesting methods have shown positive impact. Attempts to resolve the drinking water crisis has been local. However, it is significant to understand that the problems need to be
addressed from a larger perspective to curtail long-term effects.