Water level at Pazhassi dam drops; supply concerns rise

A rapid depletion in water level at the Pazhassi dam has raised concerns over drinking water availability across large parts of the district even as officials maintain that there is no immediate shortage.

The reservoir level has been falling by three to four centimetres a day, with nearly half a metre dropping in a week. From 26.52 metres in early February, the level has dropped to 22.53 metres, a decline of 3.99 metres in one and a half months. Officials have warned that a further fall of three metres could affect supplies, as pumping stations require at least 18.50 metres for their smooth functioning.

The Pazhassi project supplies drinking water to nearly two-thirds of the district, covering one Corporation, seven municipalities, and 36 panchayats through six major schemes and several minor projects. More than 240 million litres of water are pumped daily for domestic use.