Mangaluru: As summer intensifies across coastal Karnataka, a simple yet impactful initiative is helping wildlife quench its thirst. The artificial water pit project, launched by National Environment Care Federation (NECF) in collaboration with the forest department in recent years, is being strengthened further in Byndoor and Kundapur regions.Designed to support animals and birds in forest and fringe areas, the project involves building hydration points by constructing small concrete water tanks. NECF president Jonas D’Souza said that nine such units are already functional—seven in Byndoor and two in Kamalashile. There is an urgent need to build at least six more small tanks in Areshiroor, for which funds are currently being raised. The approximate cost of building such units is Rs 15,000, he said. These compact structures, measuring about 1.5ft in depth and 5ft in diameter, have proven highly effective. “Once filled, a pit can sustain wildlife for a week to a fortnight depending on the weather and consumption by animals,” D’Souza explained. In some areas, the initiative has evolved into a community-driven effort. At Amparu, locals have connected a borewell directly to the pit, ensuring steady water supply. NECF is also exploring innovative ways to study wildlife behaviour. “We are considering installing a camera near one of the pits, to monitor animal movement as part of an experimental study,” said NECF honorary secretary Shashidhar Shetty. Further, with support from the forest department, NECF is considering establishing a Malabar giant squirrel park in Kundapur. The organisation is also focusing on environmental awareness among students. Letters will be sent to the education department seeking permission to screen the film ‘Jalapata’ in govt schools across Dakshina Kannada in the next academic year. Discussion will be held with officials and school representatives soon, said D’Souza.
