Idukki, 12 September (H.S.):Water levels in Kerala State Electricity Board reservoirs have declined sharply as temperatures rise across the State even before the southwest monsoon has fully withdrawn, raising concerns over hydropower generation.

According to figures released on Friday, the combined storage in KSEB reservoirs stood at 63 per cent of their total capacity. This is 25 per cent lower than the water available during the corresponding period in 2025.

The Idukki reservoir, which supports Kerala's largest hydroelectric project, currently has 62.51 per cent storage. The water level in the dam was recorded at 2,368.46 feet at 7 a.m. on Friday, compared with 2,382.28 feet on the same day last year.

Among other major KSEB reservoirs, Kaki has 68.89 per cent storage, while Pamba has only 29.34 per cent. The storage level is 68.87 per cent in Idamalayar, 35.28 per cent in Peringalkuthu, 88.28 per cent in Sholayar, 44.25 per cent in Kuttiyadi and 81.47 per cent in Banasura Sagar.

The water currently available across the reservoirs is sufficient to generate an estimated 2,610.11 million units of electricity. However, Kerala's daily power consumption is nearing 100 million units, placing additional pressure on the available water reserves.

The Electricity Board is also facing difficulties in bringing sufficient power into the State from external sources. It is therefore examining ways to increase domestic generation to meet the growing demand.

There has been little or no rainfall in the catchment areas of the major hydroelectric projects for several days. The persistent dry weather and unusually high temperatures have accelerated the depletion of reservoir storage.

Against this backdrop, the KSEB has already stepped up electricity generation at the Idukki and Sabarigiri hydropower projects. Officials are closely monitoring reservoir inflows, power demand and weather conditions as the State prepares for the coming dry season.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman