Water level plunges by 16% in just 1 month;
release for agriculture through left canal continues
Lokmat News Network
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: The water stock in the Jayakwadi Dam, Paithan, considered the lifeline of Marathwada, is depleting rapidly day by day due to the intense summer heat.
Owing to rising temperatures, massive evaporation, and continuous lifting for both agricultural and drinking purposes, the dam's storage has dropped to 40.80%, escalating concerns for the Irrigation Department.
As per the information provided by the Irrigation Department, the Jayakwadi Dam held 56.04% water stock on April 13. However, in just one month, it dropped to 46.14% by May 13. By the morning of May 16, the live water stock remaining in the dam was only 885.840 million cubic meters (40.80%).
Because of the intensifying heat in the dam area, a staggering 1.875 MCM water evaporated in just the last 24 hours. Concurrently, water is being released through the left canal for agriculture at a rate of about 2,200 cusecs daily, putting additional strain on the available reserves.
Meanwhile, to prevent a water crisis, officials under the guidance of Prashant Sant, Executive Engineer of the Irrigation Department, are keeping a close watch on overall water management. A meticulous review is being conducted regarding canal water distribution, backwater irrigation, and water usage leading up to the upcoming monsoon. Although there is currently sufficient stock in the dam, the administration has appealed to citizens to use every drop of water sparingly.
Box
Quenching Thirst of 52 L people
The Jayakwadi Dam supplies drinking water to around 52 lakh citizens across 253 villages and major cities, including Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Jalna, Paithan, Gangapur, Ambad, Shevgaon, and Pathardi. Furthermore, this dam serves as the primary water source for various industrial estates and sugar factories in the region.