Drought Strikes: Regional Disparities in India's Reservoir Capacities

The Central Water Commission reports that India's 155 major reservoirs currently hold 180.852 billion cubic meters of water, about 70.15% of national capacity. Despite an overall improvement from last year, certain regions face significant water shortages, highlighting disparities. Notable differences are seen between regions, with some struggling to maintain adequate water reserves.

India's Central Water Commission (CWC) has reported a modest improvement in the nation's reservoir water levels, with 155 reservoirs holding 180.852 billion cubic meters (BCM) of water. This figure represents approximately 70.15% of the total estimated capacity, offering a brighter outlook compared to the previous year.

Nevertheless, the data reveals stark regional disparities. Northern states like Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Rajasthan face acute water stress with reservoirs at just 28% capacity, a decline from last year's 37%. Meanwhile, the western states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Goa fare better, with healthier reservoirs levels at 64% capacity.

The eastern regions, covering Assam and others, face slight declines in storage, while southern states show improved capacities at 50% from last year's 28%. The limited monsoon rains, as reported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), have exacerbated the situation in certain sub-divisions, contributing to these variances.