CWC Highlights Nationwide Reservoir Storage Deficit

• 04 May 2024

In May 2024, Central Water Commission (CWC) reported a significant drop in reservoir storage nationwide, with levels plunging to 28% of capacity from 35% compared to last year, with the southern region bearing the brunt.

Key Points

• Southern Region Worst Hit: CWC identifies southern region, including Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, as most affected, with live storage at only 16% of total capacity.
• Concerning National Storage Levels: Total live storage in 150 monitored reservoirs stands at 28% of their combined capacity, posing risks for agriculture and hydroelectric power generation.
• Regional Disparities: Northern region's storage at 31% of capacity contrasts with eastern region's 36%, showcasing varied storage conditions across the country.
• Impact on Water Resource Management: Decline in storage levels raises concerns for agriculture, power generation, and overall water resource management, necessitating proactive measures.
• Specific Reservoir Condition: Variances in storage levels noted across river basins, with areas like Subarnarekha and Brahmaputra showing better levels than Krishna and Cauvery basins.
• Monitoring and Management: CWC emphasized ongoing monitoring and proactive management to address emerging water scarcity and mitigate potential impacts on various sectors.