Chennai, October 1 (Daily Kiran) : Water levels in Tamil Nadu‘s reservoirs have plummeted to approximately 34% of their total capacity, prompting concerns over drinking water and irrigation. As of October 1, 2026, 63 of the state’s 90 dams hold less than a quarter of their capacity due to prolonged heat.
The state’s water resources department oversees these reservoirs, which collectively can store 224 thousand million cubic feet (TMCF) of water. Currently, only 76.4 TMCF is available, reflecting increasing pressure on water resources across various districts.
These reservoirs, constructed on different rivers, serve multiple purposes: they aid agriculture, supply drinking water, and generate electricity. Many are located in the Western Ghats, providing essential water sources for wildlife. The significant reduction in water storage has heightened reliance on the upcoming northeast monsoon.
Officials from the water resources department and the drinking water board are eagerly awaiting rainfall to replenish the reservoirs and meet demands in the coming months. Among the 90 dams, 63 are critically low, with water levels dipping below 25% of their capacity. In some cases, usable water has become scarce, revealing accumulated silt and debris.
Reports indicate that 17 dams currently hold around 17% of their capacity. The situation is exacerbated by sediment and waste buildup, which has not been adequately cleared, further diminishing the reservoirs’ ability to store water.
Despite the end of the summer season, many districts continue to experience high temperatures, attributed to the El Niño phenomenon, intensifying concerns over water shortages. If the current conditions persist without sufficient rainfall, meeting drinking water needs in several districts could become extremely challenging.
The declining water levels also threaten irrigation for crops that rely on water released from the dams. These developments underscore the crucial role of rainfall and proper maintenance of reservoirs in ensuring water supply.
While the northeast monsoon may offer some relief, the sediment accumulation remains a pressing issue as it obstructs the flow of fresh water and limits storage capacity. The replenishment of reservoirs will depend significantly on the amount of rainfall in the emptied reservoirs and catchment areas.
Currently, the water authority’s ability to address shortages for homes, agriculture, and other consumers hinges on the anticipated improvements from the upcoming monsoon.
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