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Marathwada Dams Go Dry: Only Drinking Water Allowed
16 Jun
Summary
- Irrigation releases from Marathwada dams are banned until further notice.
- Jayakwadi dam, Marathwada's lifeline, has only 28% water stock remaining.
- Farmers are advised to switch to drought-resistant crops like tur and bajra.
Marathwada dams, including the vital Jayakwadi reservoir, will exclusively supply drinking water following a ban on irrigation releases. This directive aims to conserve dwindling water stocks as the region anticipates drought conditions. Jayakwadi dam, Marathwada's lifeline, currently holds just 28% of its water capacity.
Officials are implementing strict measures to prevent unauthorized water extraction from reservoirs. Farmers are being urged to voluntarily remove pumps and advised to shift to drought-resistant crops like tur and bajra, as water-intensive crops may not be viable. This decision follows a high-level review concerning anticipated deficient rainfall and potential El Niño impacts.
Water scarcity is already apparent, with borewells drying up and urban areas relying more on tanker supply. Despite the tight situation, current reservoir levels are expected to suffice for drinking needs until August of the following year, provided conservation efforts are maintained.
