Home / Environment / Nashik Dams Full, But Water Crisis Looms
Nashik Dams Full, But Water Crisis Looms
1 Nov
Summary
- Reservoir levels match last year despite a 30% rainfall deficit.
- Officials fear drought conditions could worsen, impacting water needs.
- Concerns rise over potential water theft from canals.
Nashik's water resources department (WRD) is raising alarms about potential water shortages. Reservoirs are currently at levels comparable to the previous year, even with a significant 30% rainfall deficit. This situation, however, masks underlying challenges.
WRD officials highlight that declining groundwater levels and low soil moisture pose greater risks than current reservoir storage. These factors could severely impact the upcoming rabi crops, potentially increasing irrigation demand as the soil warms. The district administration is urging farmers to adjust their cropping patterns based on available water.
Concerns are high for a repeat of the 2016 drought scenario. During that period, farmers were found to have illegally tapped into canals, diverting water meant for drinking purposes. The largely earthen canal network is susceptible to such water theft, with clandestine pipes capable of drawing significant amounts of water over long distances.
WRD estimates substantial water losses, up to 70%, due to the unpiped nature of most canals. To combat illegal withdrawals that have previously reduced downstream flows, authorities have collaborated with the district administration to deploy police and register criminal cases against those involved in water theft.
