HUBLI: Maharashtra is set to release 5 TMC water to all barrages built across Bhima river in border area of Indi taluk of Bijapur district from Ujani dam .

People of around 60-70 villages of Indi and Sindhagi are reeling under severe water crisis after Bhima river dried up completely in the summer season.

Bhima is the lifeline for the people of Indi and Sindhagi taluk of Bijapur district. As Bhima river flows into Indi and other parts of Bijapur and Gulbarga district from Maharastra, there is agreement between both Karnataka and Maharashtra to share the water equally.

According to the agreement, Maharastra will release water from Ujani dam to fill the barrages built across Bhima river in Indi taluk.

In a joint venture, both Karnataka and Maharashtra governments built about 8 barrages across Bhima river in the border area of Indi taluk. Each barrage is 4.5 metres in height and all barrages have a capacity to store 1.6 tmc water, said sources.

Besides, Karnataka government had also built three barrages between Indi and Sindhagi taluk across Bhima river. Farmers in Indi and Sindhagi taluk are now facing severe water problem and there is no adequate water for agricultural and drinking purpose.

Speaking to TOI, J M Bhagwan, AEE, Sub-division, Indi said, the water level has come down in all 11 barrages built across Bhima. On an average, each barrage has water storage up to just 1 to 1.5 metres and it is not at all enough for agricultural purpose.

“We have already received information that Maharashtra will release 5 TMC water on Thursday and all barrages will be full by Friday evening or Saturday morning. Water will be released to Govindapur barrage from there water will be discharged to other barrages,” he added.

Now, it will help to tackle the water crisis in Indi and Sindhagi taluk and also help to supply water for agricultural purpose, he said.