Political turmoil halts supply of Cauvery water to 110 villages

The political uncertainty in Karnataka is affecting the workings of government agencies and the execution of basic works such as providing drinking water to people suffering from the summer heat.

The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has not held its board meeting since the election dates were announced in late March.

The new Cabinet is yet to take shape, and so the BWSSB's board needs the approval of the in-charge minister to take decisions on crucial matters, an official said.

The BWSSB is currently laying water and sanitary pipelines in 110 villages added to Bengaluru in 2007. Though approval for the work order was taken before the poll schedule was announced, the work almost came to a halt once electioneering began as workers were not available.

The work resumed after the polls got over, but allied projects still involve the cooperation of other agencies and approvals from the government. Officials said the delay in the approvals would affect the primary work as well.

In the BBMP, roadworks like TenderSURE and white-topping have been delayed. The road near Freedom Park was dug up almost two months ago, but the work hasn't begun because the model code of conduct had set in. The white-topping of Mysuru Road was stopped in a similar manner.

The Okalipuram flyover project, which costs Rs 226 crore, has also been delayed, which is likely to escalate the cost.