Archive · 14 Sep 2026
Karnataka Warns of Water and Power Crisis Amid Drought
Karnataka is facing a serious drought, which means there has not been enough water or rain.
The government has declared 100 areas, called taluks, to be affected by drought.
Officials say more areas may also be declared drought-hit.
Water stored underground has fallen, and many farmers’ crops have been damaged or could not be planted.
The state is also using a lot of electricity, creating worries about power shortages.
Karnataka had to buy electricity at high prices when demand was greatest.
The government is considering making more electricity in thermal power plants and buying power from other parts of India.
Leaders will discuss farmers’ problems during a special meeting of the state legislature.
Drought has been declared in 100 Karnataka taluks, with more areas under assessment.
Chief Minister D K Shivakumar warned of potential shortages of drinking water and electricity.
Power demand exceeded 19,000 MW, requiring purchases at Rs 11-13 per unit during evening peaks.
The government is considering higher thermal generation and importing power through the national grid.
A special legislative session will devote two days to farmers’ drought-related problems.
- Who
- Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar and the state government, including Energy Minister K J George.
- What
- The government warned of possible drinking-water and electricity shortages as drought affects at least 100 taluks.
- When
- The warning was issued on September 14; a special legislative session is scheduled for September 21-23.
- Where
- Karnataka, with Shivakumar speaking in Kanakapura, Ramanagara district.
- Why
- Groundwater levels have fallen, crops have been damaged, and electricity demand has exceeded 19,000 MW.
- Drought status
- Drought has been declared in 100 taluks, with additional areas being assessed.
- Electricity demand
- Power demand exceeded 19,000 MW last week.
- Peak electricity cost
- The state purchased power at Rs 11-13 per unit during evening peak hours.
- Potential power measures
- The government is considering increasing thermal generation and sourcing power from coal-producing regions.
- National grid
- Electricity from other parts of India could be supplied through the One Nation, One Grid system, subject to transmission charges.
- Legislative discussion
- Two days of the September 21-23 special session are reserved for farmers’ drought-related concerns.
- Coastal Cabinet meeting
- The Cabinet is scheduled to meet in Dakshina Kannada district on September 18 to discuss migration prevention and regional development.