Karanja dam faces security lapses

Bidar: The Karanja Dam in Bidar district is facing serious security concerns, with local residents alleging that the irrigation department has failed to ensure proper monitoring and protection of the vital reservoir. Located near Byalahalli village in Bhalki taluk, the reservoir is reportedly accessible to visitors without adequate checks. Residents claim that the eight security personnel assigned to protect the dam are rarely present on duty, leaving the premises vulnerable to misuse.

According to locals, people enter the dam premises freely, particularly during the night. They allege that groups consume alcohol and hold parties inside the restricted area before leaving in the morning. The situation has also raised concerns over public safety, as residents from neighbouring villages are reportedly entering the reservoir to wash clothes and bathe. Such activities could pose risks to both the people and the security of the dam infrastructure.

Residents have alleged that despite bringing the issue to the notice of officials and police, no effective action has been taken. They have sought regular deployment of security personnel and stricter monitoring of entry into the dam premises. The Karanja reservoir has significant importance for the region. With a storage capacity of around 7.691 TMC, it supplies drinking water to Bidar, Bhalki, Humnabad, Chitguppa and Aurad towns.Constructed nearly five decades ago primarily for irrigation, the reservoir also provides water to more than 30,000 hectares of agricultural land.

Given its importance for drinking water and irrigation, residents have urged the authorities to immediately strengthen security, ensure attendance of security personnel and prevent unauthorised activities around the reservoir.