Rain Revives Netravathi River, Eases Drinking Water Concerns in Dakshina Kannada

Mangalore Today News Network

Bantwal, May 17, 2026: Continuous rainfall over the past few days in the ghat and adjoining regions has revived the Netravathi river, bringing major relief from fears of a drinking water shortage in Dakshina Kannada district.

A few weeks ago, the river, considered the lifeline of the district, had witnessed a sharp decline in water levels due to intense summer heat. Several stretches from below the Jakribettu dam in Bantwal to the new Panemangaluru bridge had dried up, exposing sand beds and rocks.

With inflow into the river reducing significantly, concerns had emerged over possible drinking water scarcity in Bantwal and areas under the Mangaluru City Corporation limits. In response, Bantwal MLA Rajesh Naik Uliipadiguttu had directed officials to closely monitor water supply and usage.

The district administration had also ordered the release of water from the Shambhoor AMR dam to the Thumbe vented dam to ensure adequate summer supply. Authorities were instructed to prioritise the remaining water in the reservoir exclusively for drinking purposes.

Following steady rainfall and the release of water from the AMR dam, inflow into the Netravathi has increased considerably. The Jakribettu dam has filled up, with excess water being released downstream, while the Thumbe dam has also reached capacity.

Areas of the river that had earlier dried up are now submerged again, restoring the river’s flow and easing immediate concerns over drinking water scarcity. Officials said continued rainfall over the next few days could further stabilise water availability even if the monsoon arrival is delayed.