The well-known Ujire water spring on the Ujire–Dharmasthala highway in Dakshina Kannada has stopped flowing this year after a reported shortfall in rainfall, while ongoing National Highway works have raised concern that the site could become inaccessible or disappear from view.
The spring is located about three kilometres from Ujire, on the left side of a bend along the road to Dharmasthala. The site, known locally as Neera Chilume, has been recognised for its green surroundings, quiet setting and continuously flowing water. According to Prajavani, water traditionally emerged throughout the year from a hill area above the site.
A square enclosure with boundary walls and a tiled roof was built around the spring to serve visitors. A sculpted lion-head feature was used to channel the water into the structure. Travellers, pilgrims and people walking to Dharmasthala have traditionally stopped there to rest and drink water before continuing their journey.
The report said the flow has already stopped this year because of inadequate rainfall. It also raised concern that the water source could become hidden or vanish as work linked to the National Highway progresses near the site. The report did not provide details of the highway project, its executing agency, the construction schedule or any official assessment of the spring’s condition.
The condition of the spring highlights the vulnerability of small public water points located along major travel routes. Although the site is modest in scale, it serves a practical purpose for people travelling to Dharmasthala, particularly pilgrims and pedestrians who depend on accessible drinking water and shaded places to pause. Its decline also affects a local landscape feature that has helped give the area its identity.
Prajavani reported that the spring has faced neglect from the local administration and the public. The account did not identify a specific local authority responsible for maintaining the structure or monitoring the water source. It also did not state whether the current stoppage is temporary, whether the spring has dried completely below ground, or whether construction activity has altered its drainage or catchment.
The report suggested that a similar structure could be built near the National Highway, together with a rest area and drinking-water facility. Such an arrangement would provide an alternative amenity for visitors, but the report did not indicate whether any authority has accepted or acted on the proposal.
The immediate next steps remain unclear. No official statement on the spring, its water flow, the highway works or a replacement facility was included in the report. The condition of the site and the impact of the road project will require attention from the local administration and the agencies responsible for the highway.
