India’s Reservoirs at 45% Capacity as Scorching Temperatures Threaten Agriculture

Water levels in India’s major reservoirs have fallen to 45% of their total capacity, amidst above-normal temperatures forecasted from March to May. The Central Water Commission (CWC) reports that 155 major reservoirs have a combined live storage of 80.7 billion cubic meters (BCM), compared to their total capacity of 180.8 BCM. Several states, including Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Jharkhand, are facing lower-than-usual storage levels. In the northern region, water levels are at just 25% of capacity, with Himachal Pradesh and Punjab seeing significant decreases.

With two months until the monsoon season, low water availability could affect crop yields. The southern region’s reservoirs are at 41% capacity, while other regions report varying levels of storage. Many of India’s river basins, including the Ganga and Godavari, are also facing reduced water levels, which could impact agriculture and local communities.

India’s Reservoirs at 45% Capacity as Scorching Temperatures Threaten Agriculture

India is facing a severe water crisis as reservoir levels plunge to just 45% of their total capacity, raising concerns about agriculture, drinking water, and power supply. With temperatures soaring above normal and predictions of more heatwaves in the coming months, the situation could worsen before the monsoon rains arrive in June.

According to the Central Water Commission (CWC), the 155 major reservoirs monitored across the country currently hold about 80.7 billion cubic meters (BCM) of water. This is less than half of their combined storage capacity of 180.8 BCM. States like Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Jharkhand, Odisha, Nagaland, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, and Uttarakhand are reporting significantly lower water levels compared to last year. For instance, Himachal Pradesh and Punjab—key northern states—have seen their reservoir levels drop by 36% and 45%, respectively, from what is considered normal for this time of year.

Regional Disparities in Water Storage

The crisis is unevenly spread across regions. In northern India, which includes Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan, reservoirs are only a quarter full (25% of total capacity). This is particularly alarming as these areas rely heavily on stored water for irrigation and drinking needs. The southern states—Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala—are slightly better off, with their 43 reservoirs holding 41% of their capacity. Meanwhile, the western region (including Maharashtra and Gujarat) has 55% storage, central India (Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh) stands at 49%, and the eastern region (West Bengal, Odisha) is at 44%. These levels are far below what is needed to sustain demand during the scorching summer months.

River Basins Under Stress

The problem extends to India’s river systems, which are critical for farming, transportation, and hydropower. Of the 20 major river basins tracked by the CWC, 14 have storage levels below 50%. The Ganga basin, a lifeline for millions, is at 50% capacity. Other key rivers like the Godavari (48%), Narmada (47%), and Krishna (34%) are also struggling. The Krishna basin’s steep decline to 34% is worrying for states like Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, where farmers depend on its water for crops like rice and sugarcane.

Heatwaves and Crop Risks

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of more frequent heatwaves between March and May. Many regions are already experiencing temperatures 3–5°C above average. This early heat, combined with dwindling water supplies, threatens crops sown during the transitional phase between the Rabi (winter) and Kharif (monsoon) seasons. These intermediate crops, often vegetables and short-term grains, rely on irrigation from reservoirs. If water levels shrink further, yields could drop, affecting food supplies and farmers’ incomes.

Why This Matters

Water shortages impact every aspect of life. For farmers, low reservoir levels mean less irrigation, risking crop failure. For cities, it could lead to rationing and conflicts over water access. Hydropower plants, which contribute to India’s electricity grid, may also operate below capacity, worsening power shortages. Additionally, rivers like the Ganga and Godavari are not just water sources—they support fishing communities, ferry services, and ecosystems.

The Monsoon Wait

The monsoon, which typically begins in June, is still two months away. While rains could replenish reservoirs, delays or weak monsoons—a recurring concern due to climate change—might prolong the crisis. Until then, states will need to enforce strict water conservation measures. Some regions are already rationing water for agricultural use to prioritize drinking needs.

Looking Ahead

The government has urged communities to use water judiciously. However, long-term solutions like better rainwater harvesting, efficient irrigation, and interlinking rivers to redistribute water remain critical. For now, the focus is on managing the existing reserves to avoid a full-blown emergency. As temperatures rise and reservoirs dry up, millions of Indians are left hoping for timely rains—and praying the monsoon delivers.

The coming weeks will test India’s ability to balance immediate needs with sustainable planning. With livelihoods and food security at stake, the water crisis is a stark reminder of the urgent need to adapt to a warming climate.