The Nagarjuna Sagar reservoir has dropped to critical levels near its dead storage limit, halting canal irrigation. Farmers are now desperately waiting for floodwaters from the Srisailam project to save their Kharif crops.
Key Takeaways
- Nagarjuna Sagar water level has dropped to 513.70 feet, nearing the 510-foot dead storage mark.
- Canal irrigation for command areas has been completely suspended.
- Heavy inflows are being recorded in the Srisailam project, with 2 lakh cusecs daily.
- Farmers face uncertainty regarding Kharif paddy cultivation due to delayed water release.
A critical situation has emerged for the agricultural heartlands of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh as the Nagarjuna Sagar Reservoir approaches its dead storage limit. Currently, the water level stands at 513.70 feet, dangerously close to the 510-foot dead storage threshold. This depletion has resulted in the total cessation of water release through the left and right canals, leaving thousands of acres of farmland without irrigation.
The Impact on Agriculture
The timing of this water shortage is particularly devastating as it coincides with the Kharif sowing season. Farmers in the command area are caught in a state of uncertainty, struggling to decide whether to proceed with paddy cultivation. The lack of canal water means that the survival of the current crop cycle is now entirely dependent on the arrival of floodwaters from the upstream Srisailam project.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that the stability of the regional agrarian economy is inextricably linked to the water levels of the Nagarjuna Sagar dam. When the reservoir hits dead storage, not only is irrigation halted, but the capacity for hydroelectric power generation is also severely compromised, creating a ripple effect across the state's energy and food security.
Hydrologists suggest that the window for saving the Kharif season is closing rapidly, making the inflows from Srisailam critical.
Reservoir Status Comparison
| Parameter | Srisailam Project | Nagarjuna Sagar |
|---|---|---|
| Current Level | 874 feet | 513.70 feet |
| Full Capacity Level | 885 feet | 590 feet |
| Current Status | High Inflow | Near Dead Storage |
According to officials, the Srisailam reservoir is receiving massive inflows of over 2,00,000 cusecs per day from the Jurala project. If this trend continues, Srisailam is expected to reach its full capacity of 885 feet within four days, after which gates will be opened to release water into the downstream Nagarjuna Sagar reservoir.
Did You Know?
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When will irrigation resume in the canals?
Irrigation via the left canal is expected to resume only once the Nagarjuna Sagar water level rises to approximately 550 feet.
2. Is there hope for the Kharif crops?
Yes, if the heavy rains in the upper catchment areas continue and Srisailam releases sufficient water within the next week, farmers may still be able to save their season.
