Chennai’s Water Resources Department (WRD) has initiated a crucial appeal to the Andhra Pradesh government, urging for the release of Krishna river water from the Kandaleru reservoir. This move comes as Chennai faces mounting challenges in meeting its escalating drinking water requirements.
As of the latest update, reservoirs in Tiruvallur district, integral to Chennai’s water supply, hold approximately 4,758 million cubic feet, equating to 40.47% of their total capacity. These reserves are anticipated to suffice until the onset of the northeast monsoon in October. However, the addition of Krishna river water is deemed essential to bolster these reserves and ensure sustained supply amidst prevailing shortages. Currently, Chennai and its adjoining regions are being supplied with 1,067.19 million litres of water per day (mld), primarily through pipelines and tankers, with nearly 1,022.70 mld allocated for domestic consumption. The WRD underscores the significance of Krishna river discharge, particularly during the southwest monsoon, which is expected to enhance reservoir levels in Andhra Pradesh, thereby facilitating increased water release.
Under the terms of a longstanding agreement dating back to 1983, Chennai typically receives approximately 8,000 million cubic feet (mcft) of Krishna river water between July and October each year. Notably, during the corresponding period in 2023, Chennai received 2,412 mcft, highlighting the critical role of this water source in augmenting the city’s water supply during crucial months. The WRD has postponed proposals for water requisition during the January-April period, citing adequate reserves in Chennai’s waterbodies. Instead, efforts have been redirected towards enhancing infrastructure, including repairs to the Kandaleru-Poondi canal and reinforcing the shutters of the Poondi reservoir, vital for storing Krishna river water. Completion of these initiatives by mid-August is anticipated to fortify the canal’s capacity and ensure reservoir safety, paving the way for efficient water management ahead of the monsoon season.
