What is the water crisis situation in Kerala?

According to the study, several districts in Kerala, including Kasaragod, Thiruvananthapuram, Pathanamthitta, and Kozhikode, are experiencing high levels of recurrent summer water stress, with up to 24.74% of wards affected.

What are the key challenges identified in the Kerala water crisis?

The report highlights groundwater depletion and saline intrusion as critical challenges in districts like Kasaragod and Kannur, as well as inadequate distribution networks and unreliable municipal supplies in Wayanad and Malappuram.

What solutions are proposed to address the Kerala water crisis?

The study emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach, including upgrading infrastructure, promoting sustainable water conservation practices, and improving the efficiency of water distribution systems. It also stresses the importance of community involvement and awareness in managing water resources effectively.

Home / Environment / Kerala Wards Battling Recurrent Summer Water Scarcity

Kerala Wards Battling Recurrent Summer Water Scarcity

19 Oct

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Summary

24.74% of wards in Kasaragod facing high water stress
Thiruvananthapuram, Pathanamthitta, and Kozhikode also severely affected
Groundwater depletion and saline intrusion critical challenges in some districts

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.