Illegal construction of wells in river beds to draw water to irrigate areca nut and other cash crops along the Madhuvahini river is continuing unabated. Kasaragod district has been reeling under water shortage despite being blessed with 12 rivers. Though 900 water storage structures were constructed, groundwater level has not seen a major rise in the district. Moreover, illegal drawing of water is depleting groundwater levels.
While the water table has risen thanks to good rains, a few regions in north Kasaragod have witnessed a depletion in water levels. They include the area near the Madhuvahini river.
According to environmentalists, the authorities are yet to act against the illegal practice that destroys water sources and river beds.
