Luna River’s dipping water level worrisome

The falling water level of Luna River, which flows through Kendrapara district, has raised concerns over the town's drinking water supply and the future of agricultural land along its basin.

- POST NEWS NETWORK

Officials said the intake feeder near Kalapada has been dry since November. To ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply to Kendrapara town, the Public Health Engineering Organisation (PHEO) is digging a canal - 700 metres long, 25 feet wide and 10 feet deep - into the riverbed to channel water to the intake point.

Despite this temporary measure, the river's water level continues to decline rapidly. Residents fear that the situation could worsen during the summer, leading to a complete disruption of drinking water supply. Agriculture in the downstream areas is also at risk, with an estimated 10,000 hectares facing potential crop failure.

Local environmental concerns have further intensified due to illegal sand mining, which residents say, is altering the river's natural course. Intellectuals in the district argue that interlinking Kendrapara's rivers could offer a long-term solution.