Karwar: Uttara Kannada district is currently facing a significant shortage of rainfall, raising concerns about water scarcity in multiple areas. At the same time, unannounced power outages are becoming a growing issue across the state. The depletion of water levels in key reservoirs, including Kadra, Supa, Gerusoppa, and Tattihalli in Uttara Kannada district, has led to a 10 percent reduction in power generation, resulting in a daily loss of 250 megawatts.
The most noticeable impact of this water scarcity is felt in the Kali River reservoirs, which contribute a substantial portion of the state’s total electricity generation, amounting to 1,340 megawatts. However, due to the insufficient rainfall, these reservoirs are struggling to maintain their power production levels.
Power generation statistics from various reservoirs reflect the severity of the situation:
- Nagajari power plant production reduced to 870 megawatts
- Kadra power plant to 150 megawatts
- Kodasalli power plant to 120 megawatts
- Supa power plant to 200 megawatts
- Geru Soppa plant to 150 megawatts
The declining water levels are severely impacting the power generation capacity in these reservoirs. If the rainfall deficit continues, the possibility of a near-complete shutdown of power generation in these reservoirs becomes increasingly likely, exacerbating the ongoing power supply issues.
The state is already grappling with electricity load shedding problems. HESCOM, a major power supplier, requires 8 million units of electricity daily, with power being distributed to meet local demands and supply other districts. The prolonged rain shortfall poses a significant threat to hydropower generation, making the situation even more critical.
Karwar benefits from 900 megawatts of electricity generated by the Kaiga nuclear plant. However, even nuclear plants rely on water for cooling and operation. The lack of rainfall is not only affecting drinking water supplies and agriculture but is also having a detrimental impact on power generation. If the rainfall deficit persists, the state’s electricity shortage is expected to worsen, further intensifying the challenges faced by residents and industries.
