India Faces Water Storage Decline

January 25, 2025

Recent reports indicate decline in water storage across major reservoirs in India. The Central Water Commission (CWC) has brought into light that water levels have decreased for the twelfth consecutive week. This decline is attributed to deficient post-monsoon and winter rainfall affecting a large portion of the country. Current data shows that the total storage in 155 major reservoirs has fallen to 66 per cent of their total capacity. This situation raises concerns about water availability for various sectors.

Current Water Storage Statistics

As of now, the water storage in the major reservoirs stands at 119.505 billion cubic metres (BCM) out of a total capacity of 180.852 BCM. This figure is higher than last year’s storage levels and the average of the past decade. However, the ongoing deficiency in rainfall poses a serious threat to future water supply.

Deficient Rainfall Overview

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reports that 83 per cent of India experienced deficient rainfall from January 1 to January 24. This period has seen over 60 per cent of the country receiving scanty or no rainfall. Specifically, winter rainfall in January is reported to be 62 per cent deficient compared to normal levels.

Regional Water Storage Analysis

In the northern region, storage levels in 11 reservoirs are at 38 per cent of their total capacity. Punjab’s Thein dam has dropped to 18 per cent capacity, while Himachal Pradesh’s reservoirs are at 31 per cent. Conversely, Rajasthan has fared better, with reservoirs filled to 68 per cent of their capacity.
The eastern region’s 25 reservoirs are currently at 63.64 per cent of their total capacity. In Bihar, the lone dam’s storage is at 25 per cent, while Nagaland’s dam is at 46 per cent. Other states like Jharkhand and Tripura report levels above 70 per cent.
In the western region, the situation is relatively stable. The 50 reservoirs here are at 78 per cent capacity. Goa’s reservoir is nearly full at 93 per cent, while Maharashtra and Gujarat report levels of 79 per cent and 73 per cent, respectively.
The central region’s 26 reservoirs are filled to 69 per cent of their total capacity. Uttar Pradesh’s storage has dropped below 60 per cent, while Madhya Pradesh maintains a better level at 73 per cent.
In the southern region, the 43 reservoirs are at 66 per cent capacity. Tamil Nadu’s dams are notably filled to 86 per cent. Andhra Pradesh and Telangana report levels of 77 per cent and 74 per cent, respectively.

Future Rainfall Projections

The IMD has forecast below-normal rainfall until February 5. This prediction suggests that water storage levels may continue to decline in the coming weeks, exacerbating the water crisis in affected regions.

« Previous Post Next Post »