Gonikoppa Derapura tank waiting for rain

Devarakadu tank which was providing shelter to the wild animals and cattle is now dried. Thanks to the deficit rainfall in the region.

Had the region received normal rainfall as per the convention, the tank would have been overflowing by now.

Unfortunately, a small quantity of water is seen in the tank. A sunshine will surely evaporate the entire water.

The tank is situated in front of Ayyappa temple. The annual ‘Kunde habba’ celebrated with traditional fervour in the region. The festival is held on the banks of this tank. The merchants put up a shed and sell their produce during the annual festival.

However, the tank is still in old model. Owing to lack of retention wall, the tank looks like a soil pit. The tank is 20 feet deep. Devarakadu (Scared grove) is situated adjacent to the tank. Wild elephants, wild boar and other wild animals depend on this tank for drinking water.

Every year, the tank overflows. However, with deficit rainfall, the tank has not yet filled.

This has also affected the wild animals which depend on this tank for water.

Krishnakumar, a resident of Derapura says “the government should rejuvenate the tank, by taking up the work on dredging.

There is a need to construct a retaining wall around the tank. Canals should be constructed to allow the additional water from the tank to flow into the neighbouring farm land. If the tank is developed, then it can be converted into a tourist spot. This will also help wild animals to quench their thirst.”