India is on the brink of a severe water crisis as the water level in its major reservoirs has plummeted to a mere 31% of their total capacity.
The dwindling reservoir levels, particularly in southern states like Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, raise concerns over water scarcity and its implications for agriculture, urban supply, and ecological balance. The persistent decline in reservoir levels can be attributed to various factors, including deficient rainfall exacerbated by the El Nino weather phenomenon. With 21 states experiencing rain deficiency or no rainfall since March, the country faces an 18% below-normal rainfall, as reported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
The Central Water Commission (CWC) revealed that the available water level in the 150 major reservoirs this week stands at 56.085 billion cubic metre (BCM), marking a significant decrease from previous years. This represents a 17% decline compared to the corresponding period last year and a 3.5% reduction from the average of the past decade. The impact of the water crisis extends beyond immediate concerns, with implications for agriculture, GDP, and food prices. The impending adverse effects on the current rabi crop in southern regions and summer crops in various states raise alarms among agriculture economists and policymakers.
However, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon, as the Indian Meteorological Department predicts above-normal monsoon rainfall at 106% of the long-period average. With the El Nino weather phenomenon transitioning to benign La Nina conditions by August-September, relief is anticipated across sectors, particularly agriculture. The situation in southern regions, where reservoir levels have dropped to a critical 17% of capacity, underscores the urgency of water conservation measures and sustainable management practices. Furthermore, the challenges faced by other regions, including the western, central, eastern, and northern parts of India, highlight the nationwide scope of the water crisis. As India braces itself for the impending monsoon season, proactive measures and concerted efforts are imperative to mitigate the adverse impacts of water scarcity and ensure the sustainable management of precious water resources. Collaboration between government agencies, local communities, and stakeholders is essential to address the multifaceted challenges posed by the water crisis and safeguard the nation’s future water security.
