Shivamogga, July 6 -- Karnataka Water Resources Minister Ramalinga Reddy on Sunday, July 5, said the state is witnessing one of the weakest southwest monsoons in nearly 150 years, forcing the government to prioritise drinking water over irrigation. He made the remarks after inspecting the Bhadra Dam and reviewing the water storage position with officials.

Addressing reporters, the minister said the state government was closely monitoring the water levels in reservoirs and hoped rainfall would improve in the coming days.

"I visited the Bhadra Dam and the Upper Bhadra Project to assess the water situation. Rainfall has been extremely poor this year. In view of the current situation, drinking water has been given top priority. That is why ...