Mandya: The Krishna Raja Sagar (KRS) Dam in Karnataka has crossed the 100-foot water level for the first time during the current monsoon season following continuous heavy rainfall in Kodagu and other catchment areas. The rising storage has brought relief to farmers and water managers, signalling improved water availability for irrigation and drinking purposes in the months ahead.
According to official data, the reservoir’s water level stood at 100.34 feet against its full reservoir level (FRL) of 124.80 feet, with strong inflows continuing into the dam.
Heavy rainfall boosts reservoir levels
The steady rise in the KRS reservoir has been driven by persistent monsoon rainfall across Kodagu district and neighbouring catchment regions.
Officials said the increased inflow has substantially improved water storage compared to earlier weeks, strengthening Karnataka’s water reserves for agriculture and domestic consumption.
Water level crosses 100 feet
The reservoir crossed the 100-foot milestone on August 3, marking the first time it has reached this level during the 2026 southwest monsoon.
As per the latest readings, the dam stood at 100.34 feet, while water inflow remained healthy due to continued rainfall upstream.
Kabini begins releasing water
Alongside KRS, the Kabini reservoir has also witnessed significant inflows.
To regulate rising storage levels, authorities have started releasing around 27,000 cusecs of water downstream from Kabini, helping maintain reservoir safety while accommodating fresh inflows.
Positive outlook for farmers
The improving storage levels have raised hopes among farmers across Mandya, Mysuru and neighbouring districts that depend on Cauvery water for irrigation.
Higher reservoir levels are expected to support agricultural activities during the ongoing cropping season while ensuring adequate drinking water supply for several towns and cities, including Bengaluru, which draws part of its water from the KRS system.
KRS remains Karnataka’s key reservoir
Constructed across the Cauvery River in Mandya district, the Krishna Raja Sagar Dam is one of Karnataka’s most important reservoirs.
Besides irrigating thousands of hectares of farmland, the reservoir supplies drinking water to Mysuru, Mandya and a significant portion of Bengaluru. It is operated by the Cauvery Neeravari Nigam Limited (CNNL).
Authorities continue monitoring inflows
Officials are closely monitoring rainfall forecasts and inflow patterns as the southwest monsoon continues.
If heavy rainfall persists in the catchment areas, reservoir levels are expected to rise further in the coming days, with controlled water releases being carried out whenever necessary to maintain safe operating levels.
Conclusion
The KRS Dam crossing the 100-foot mark marks a significant milestone for Karnataka’s monsoon season. Strong inflows from the Cauvery basin have improved reservoir storage, offering relief to farmers and water managers while strengthening irrigation and drinking water prospects across the region. Authorities, however, continue to monitor rainfall and reservoir operations to ensure safe water management throughout the season.