Mangalore : Until Thursday, the main river of DK dt, Nethravathi appeared thin and lanky, without much water flowing in it in Bantwal. Last year at this time, she had crossed the danger level in her obesity and fat proportions, threatening those who lived on her banks. But this year, even after a month of Monsoon, the water level is low and there are dry spots under the bridges. Leave alone Kolar and Mandya, Nethravathi without changing her course, cannot feed Tulunadu that is DK dt. Besides, there has been a break in Monsoon for ten to twelve days. The water is just 2 meter high around Bantwal and Kannur.
In 2009, by July, this river was in spate and road leading to Basti Padpu was inundated. Thumbe had overflowing waters. At present sluice gates are closed and water is allowed for power generation only at AMR dam in Shamboor.
The absence of rains till July 15 has troubled the farmers who have to tend their farms evenly. Besides, small power generators also feeling heat want more water in the river. However, it is hoped that heavy rains all over the coast in Karnataka must have improved the inflow in Nethravathi and Thumbe to feed Mangalore and Suburbs.