Kerala Wards Battling Recurrent Summer Water Scarcity

According to a study conducted by the Kozhikode-based government agency Centre for Water Resources Development and Management (CWRDM) and released in 2025, several districts in Kerala are facing a severe and recurrent summer water crisis. The study, titled 'Kerala Water Resources Assessment 2024: Rainfall, Rivers, Groundwater and Wetlands', found that as much as 24.74% of the wards in Kasaragod, 22.01% in Thiruvananthapuram, 20.72% in Pathanamthitta, and 20.48% in Kozhikode are experiencing high water stress during the March-May period, despite the state's high annual rainfall.

The report also identified critical challenges in other districts, such as groundwater depletion and saline intrusion in Kasaragod and Kannur, as well as inadequate distribution networks and unreliable municipal supplies in Wayanad and Malappuram. While ongoing efforts like rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge have been implemented, their effectiveness has been limited due to the increasing demand and insufficient storage capacity.

The study emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to water management, including upgrading infrastructure, promoting sustainable water conservation practices, and improving the efficiency of water distribution systems. It also highlights the importance of community involvement and awareness in managing water resources effectively. Policymakers and local authorities are urged to implement targeted interventions and develop long-term strategies to alleviate water scarcity, enhance water resilience, and ensure sustainable access to water for all residents in the state.