Water level in dams and reservoirs decreased to 45 percent

21-Mar-2025 11:57 AM

India's Reservoir Water Levels Drop to 45%, Raising Irrigation Concerns

Key Findings from Central Water Commission (CWC) Report

• Water stock in 155 major dams and reservoirs has declined to 45% of total capacity.
• Half of these reservoirs have levels below 50%.
• Irrigation for summer and early Kharif crops may face serious hurdles.

Current Reservoir Water Status

• Total capacity of 755 reservoirs: 180.852 billion cubic meters (BCM).
• Current available water: 80.700 BCM.
• 53 reservoirs hold less than 40% of capacity, and 30 others are below 50%.
• Only two reservoirs—Sanchet Hill (Jharkhand) & Sapuda (Odisha)—are full.

Impact of Dry Weather & Low Rainfall

• High temperatures have accelerated water depletion.
• 80% of districts reported no or negligible rainfall between March 1–20.
• 60% of the country experienced below-normal rainfall from October 2023–February 2024.

Regional Breakdown

• Northern Region (11 reservoirs)
  • 8 reservoirs have less than 40% water left.
  • Total available water: 5.044 BCM (just 25% of total capacity).
  • State-wise reserves:
    • Himachal Pradesh: 19%
    • Punjab: 21%
    • Rajasthan: 44%

Possible Consequences

• If pre-monsoon rains remain weak, water levels may decline further.
• Irrigation for Kharif crops could be disrupted, affecting agricultural production.