Following last summer’s drought, which led to severe water scarcity in rural areas, Karnataka is witnessing a positive turn as two of the four major dams in the Cauvery basin are receiving substantial inflows. This development has prompted the state government to initiate water releases to replenish waterbodies, aiming to preempt potential crises and alleviate villagers’ concerns.
The Cauvery Neeravari Nigam (CNNL) recently inspected the Visvesvaraya Canal, crucial for feeding the KRS dam, with plans to commence water release to fill tanks and waterbodies. The current inflow to the KRS dam stands at 8,425 cusecs, raising the water level to 102.80 feet out of a maximum of 124.80 feet. Excess rainfall in Mandya district from June 1 to July 7 has eased pressure on Cauvery water availability, yet the government awaits a decision on water allocation for crops.
In Mysuru district’s HD Kote, the Kabini dam reports inflows of 4,711 cusecs, with plans to release water through both right and left canals from Wednesday. Karnataka Rajya Raita Sangha president, Badagalapura Nagendra, emphasized farmers’ anticipation for crop irrigation following tank refilling, urging timely water distribution by month-end.
The resurgence in dam levels and planned water releases underscore efforts to mitigate agricultural distress and secure rural water needs in Karnataka.
