The Nilgiris District Congress Committee has appealed to the District Collector to conserve dam water for human consumption and halt its use for power generation. Poor monsoon has left Kundah, Kotagiri and Coonoor taluks grappling with severe water shortages.

  • Water scarcity escalating in Nilgiris
  • Dam water should be preserved for drinking, not power
  • Demand to declare Udhagamandalam, Kundah, Kotagiri, Coonoor as drought‑hit taluks

Nilgiris District Congress Committee has written to the District Collector, urging authorities to safeguard the remaining water in district dams exclusively for human consumption and cease its use for electricity generation.

Historical Background

Both the Emerald Dam and a second reservoir were fully opened in 2024 and 2025 respectively. The subsequent release of stored water, combined with a failed monsoon, caused the catchment areas to dry out rapidly, leaving Kundah, Kotagiri and Coonoor taluks with dwindling supplies.

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Current Situation

Water originally earmarked for power generation is now being diverted to meet drinking‑water needs in Wellington Cantonment. The Congress Committee stresses this is a temporary measure and that any non‑essential use of water must be halted during the acute shortage.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that prolonged water scarcity in the Nilgiris could trigger agricultural losses, affect tourism, and increase migration to urban centers, thereby straining regional economies.

"Prioritising dam water for drinking purposes is essential to maintain social stability in the region," water expert Dr. Ajay Singh said.
Did You Know?: The Emerald Dam in Nilgiris was opened to full capacity for the first time in 2024, leading to a sharp decline in downstream water availability.

Recommended Actions

The committee has asked the District Collector to represent the matter to the State Government, seeking an official declaration of Udhagamandalam, Kundah, Kotagiri and Coonoor as “drought‑hit taluks” to unlock targeted relief measures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Can the dam water be completely shut off for power generation?

Answer: Instead of a full shutdown, the water will be re‑allocated primarily for drinking purposes while power generation will be met through alternative sources.

Question 2: What relief can be expected if the taluks are declared drought‑hit?

Answer: Such a declaration would make the areas eligible for central and state‑level water supply schemes, agricultural assistance, and financial aid.