Water Levels of Major Reservoirs in Himachal Pradesh Fall Significantly, Central Water Commission Issues Advisory

Shimla, March 26: The water levels in the major reservoirs of Himachal Pradesh have witnessed a significant decline, raising concerns about the impact on hydropower generation and irrigation for crops in the state. In response to a query raised by Member of Parliament (MP) Dr. Sikander Kumar in the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti Raj Bhushan Chaudhary confirmed that the water storage in these reservoirs has sharply decreased.

According to the bulletin issued by the Central Water Commission (CWC) on March 13, 2025, the live storage in three major reservoirs of Himachal Pradesh has dropped to only 2.624 billion cubic meters (BCM). In the same period last year, the water level was recorded at 3.994 BCM. This year’s storage is also significantly lower than the average of the past ten years, which stands at 3.937 BCM. The decrease in the water levels has been recorded at 33 percent below the normal levels, a worrying figure that could have a far-reaching impact on various sectors in the state.

The sharp fall in water storage is attributed to the insufficient rainfall and snowfall over the past months. The Union Minister highlighted that these climatic anomalies have contributed to a severe water crisis in the region, which could affect both the agricultural and energy sectors. The reduced water availability could lead to reduced irrigation capabilities, putting crops at risk, and could also hinder hydropower generation, an important revenue source for the state.

Dr. Sikander Kumar had earlier raised the issue in the Rajya Sabha, questioning the government about the sharp drop in water levels compared to previous years. He also sought clarification regarding the shortage of rainfall and the drought-like conditions in Himachal Pradesh, expressing concern that these factors could lead to more severe problems, such as a water shortage for irrigation and a reduction in power generation capacity. Additionally, Kumar raised alarms about the potential deepening of the drinking water crisis in the state.

In response, the Union Minister confirmed that the CWC had indeed issued an advisory to the Himachal Pradesh government, urging state authorities to take necessary precautions and implement measures to mitigate the impact of the water scarcity. The advisory also called for a strategic approach to manage the situation effectively, ensuring that both hydropower generation and agricultural activities are not adversely affected in the coming months.

The state of Himachal Pradesh, which relies heavily on its reservoirs for hydroelectric power generation and irrigation, is now facing a critical situation. The water shortage has raised alarms among local farmers who depend on regular water supply for their crops, and it has put additional pressure on the state’s already strained water infrastructure.

The government is now focusing on addressing the water crisis through various means, including water conservation techniques and improving water management practices. Authorities are also assessing the possibility of alternative measures to ensure that essential water supply for drinking and irrigation is maintained in the face of these challenging circumstances.

This situation has sparked widespread concerns among residents, policymakers, and experts, urging immediate action to prevent the crisis from worsening. As the region enters the warmer months, the demand for water is expected to rise, making it even more important to find solutions for sustainable water use and conservation in the state.