Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Geography
Why in News?
India’s reservoir storage fell to 70% of capacity, below the 10-year average of 76.62%, amid deficient monsoon rainfall and severe water stress in southern India.
Reservoir Storage Status
- The Central Water Commission (CWC) monitors live storage levels across 178 major reservoirs.
- As of 24 September 2026, these reservoirs contained 70% of their total designed capacity.
- This storage level is lower than the following historical benchmarks:
- 10-year average – 76.62%
- 2025 level – 79%
- This reduced storage coincides with drought declarations in Maharashtra and Karnataka.
Rainfall & Monsoon Situation
- Rainfall Deficit – By September 28, India experienced a 12% below-normal rainfall.
- South India recorded a 23% deficit, while East and Northeast regions had approximately a 25% deficit.
- Southwest Monsoon – Occurring from June to September, the southwest monsoon supplies over 70% of India’s annual rainfall.
- This precipitation is essential for reservoirs, irrigation, drinking water, and hydropower generation.
- El Niño – This tropical Pacific Ocean–atmosphere phenomenon significantly influences the Indian monsoon.
- Strengthening El Niño conditions have been associated with rainfall deficits, prolonged dry spells, and elevated temperatures.
Reference
Indian Express | India’s Water Storage at 10-Year Low
