Expectation of Rising Water Stocks in Dams and Reservoirs

10-Jul-2026 02:11 PM

New Delhi. Water stocks in dams and reservoirs across the country are currently low, but water levels are expected to improve in the coming days due to the increased activity of the Southwest Monsoon. This will aid irrigation for both Kharif and the upcoming Rabi season crops. While rainfall was nearly 40 percent below the normal average throughout June, a 38 percent surplus in rainfall was recorded between July 1 and July 9. It is anticipated that the rainy spell will continue, leading to an increase in water stocks in dams and reservoirs.

Latest data from the Central Water Commission indicates that the country's 166 major dams and reservoirs hold 59.443 billion cubic meters (BCM) of water, representing 32.4 percent of their total storage capacity. During the same period last year, water storage stood at 36.5 percent. The current water level is 7.6 percent higher than the average for this time of year. Pre-monsoon rainfall this year did not meet expectations, and rainfall was very scarce during the first month of the Southwest Monsoon, causing a significant drop in water stocks in dams and reservoirs. Extreme heat also contributed to the decline in water levels. Now, signs of improvement are becoming visible.

There was a severe lack of rainfall in the eastern and northeastern states, while South India and the northwestern region also received scanty rainfall. Monsoon activity has now intensified in these regions, leading to torrential downpours. This is causing water levels to rise in fields and small water sources, as well as in major dams, reservoirs, and lakes.

A few days ago, water stocks in dams and reservoirs had dropped to 26–27 percent of total storage capacity; this has now improved to over 32 percent. Further increases in water levels are expected with the support of rainfall during July and August.