Low rainfall drags water levels down in reservoirs in South, only Almatti is full

As on August 15, only the Almatti dam in Karnataka reached its full capacity

Deficient monsoon has dragged water levels down in all reservoirs in Southern India. According to data released by Central Water Commission, the average water table in reservoirs across the country, especially in the Southern parts have been less than last year's level as well the average of last 10 years.

In Karnataka, except the Almatti reservoir, none have reached full capacity. Water is already being released back into the river from the Harangi, KRS and Kabini dams despite them not reaching full capacity. Heavy rains over the last two days in the Cauvery belt is expected to bring some relief to the farmers in the belt. The Karnataka government last week decided to allow water into canals but requested farmers not to sow paddy and utilise the water only for drinking purposes.

As on August 15, Almatti dam stood to full capacity with 1704.81 feet. All other reservoirs including Hemavathi, KRS are far off from full capacity. Supa reservoir is worst hit with water levels still at 4871.64 feet as against full capacity of 1849.92 feet. The total available water is only 43 tmcft while last year, these dams had 55 tmcft of water.

As per CWC data, 31 reservoirs located in the southern states have reported 29 per cent holding capacities currently as against 39 per cent last year around the same time. Hopes are now pinned on the northeast monsoon to make up for the deficit. Kerala is expected to get above normal rainfall over the southern peninsula from August 17 to 23. The 16 reservoirs together in Kerala hold just enough water to generate 1371.625 million units, down from 2029.071 mu last year.

OneIndia News