Drinking water scarcity has intensified across Aurad, Bhalki, Basavakalyan and Kamalanagar taluks with 43 villages being affected in Bidar district, according to Minister for Forests and Environment Eshwar Khandre.

Chairing a review meeting on Monday, Mr. Khandre, who is district in-charge, cautioned that the situation can deteriorate further by the end of this month.

According to the Minister, Aurad taluk has 14 affected villages. This is followed by Kamalnagar with 11, Basavakalyan with 10 and Bhalki with eight villages affected by water shortage.

He directed officials to ensure uninterrupted water supply through tankers and to drill new borewells only in critical situations.

He noted reports of obstruction to the use of private borewells and open wells meant for drinking water supply and warned that stringent legal action, including registration of FIRs, will be taken against anyone hindering the supply of drinking water.

Stating that groundwater levels have declined sharply to 700 ft-800 ft, particularly in hamlets in Aurad taluk, the Minister instructed officials to undertake borewell rejuvenation, flushing and deepening works while ensuring alternative arrangements to prevent any village from facing water shortage.

He directed local revenue and panchayat officials to conduct daily field visits to monitor water distribution and curb unauthorised use of motor pumps.

Emphasising timely payment for tanker services, Mr. Khandre said that adequate fodder stock is available for the next 24 weeks.

The Minister reviewed power supply issues and called for prompt maintenance works to ensure uninterrupted electricity. He directed officials to prepare in advance for the monsoon season by ensuring adequate availability of seeds and fertilisers for farmers.

Reviewing forest fire, the Minister instructed officials to stay on high alert and take strict legal action against those found deliberately setting fire in forest areas.

Mr. Khandre directed officials that basic services, including drinking water and electricity, must be delivered without any lapse.

Deputy Commissioner Shilpa Sharma, Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Girish Badole, City Corporation Commissioner Mukul Jain, Superintendent of Police Pradeep Gunti and district and taluk-level officials were present.