Pics: Umesh Marpalli
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB)
Udupi, Apr 25: A miracle of sorts has been witnessed in Parkala, as wells and streams, which usually dry up in summer, have seen an increase in the level of water.
About a dozen wells have gradually filled with water over the week, despite the absence of rains. Needless to say, the sight has brought a sense of much relief and joy coupled with awe.
While the Udupi administration has been thinking of ways to ensure that citizens do not face water shortage till the onset of monsoons, this natural phenomenon is seen by some as a divine blessing. Both laypersons as well as experts seem to be baffled.
It is that streams in Kelaparkala had dried up, but over last week or so, water has began to appear again and the level has steadily increased. The residents, some of whom have been here all their lives, said that they had never see such a phenomenon before. It is nothing short of a miracle, they said.
Given the harsh summer heat, the locals are more than joyous. Many were seen getting down into the fresh water for a dip or just to cool their heels, literally.
At the same time, there is some level of anxiety too, as it is said such sudden appearance of water may be a sign of an imminent earthquake. Geologists believe that water appears on the surface of earth in this manner when a layer of the soil gives way. Nevertheless, most people have chosen to think of it as a boon and are happy that they will not have to face a shortage of water in peak summer.