How is the Cauvery flow boosting storage in delta tanks?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The steady inflow of Cauvery water and a favorable southwest monsoon have significantly uplifted tank storage in Tamil Nadu's delta regions. With nearly two-thirds of the 737 system tanks boasting over 50% storage, farmers are optimistic about a bountiful samba crop this year. This is a notable improvement over last year's figures.
Key Takeaways
- Two-thirds of the tanks in Tamil Nadu’s delta districts are over 50% full.
- Thanjavur has 537 tanks, leading in storage capacity.
- Timely water release from Mettur dam is crucial this year.
- Farmers are optimistic about the samba crop due to improved water levels.
- Further improvements are anticipated with the approaching northeast monsoon.
Chennai, Sep 2 (NationPress) The continuous flow of Cauvery water, combined with a favorable southwest monsoon in adjacent states, has led to an impressive rise in storage levels across nearly two-thirds of the 737 system tanks in Tamil Nadu’s delta regions. This marks a significant enhancement compared to last year, where less than one-third of these tanks achieved similar storage levels.
The primary delta districts — Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Mayiladuthurai, and Pudukkottai — rely heavily on these tanks, which serve vital roles in irrigation, especially in tail-end areas.
Out of the total 737 system tanks, Thanjavur features the majority with 537, followed by Pudukkottai with 170, Tiruvarur with 28, and Mayiladuthurai having two.
In Thanjavur, known as the core of the Cauvery delta, 38 tanks have reached their maximum capacity, a notable increase from the 19 recorded last year.
Furthermore, 113 tanks are currently holding between 75% and 100% of their capacity, while 184 are within the 50% – 70% range.
Pudukkottai, with its 170 tanks, has one tank at full capacity, 62 tanks between 75% and 100%, and another 62 in the 50% – 75% range.
Officials indicate that the overall situation is significantly more positive than last year, with expectations for further improvements during the northeast monsoon.
A senior official from the Water Resources Department (WRD) mentioned that consistent discharge from the Grand Anicut and Vennaru rivers has substantially increased storage in numerous tanks.
He highlighted that the timely release of water from the Mettur dam on June 12, unlike the delayed opening last year on July 28, has been a crucial factor in this year's success. This season, the dam has attained full reservoir levels four times, boosted by surplus flows from Karnataka, while normal southwest monsoon rainfall in Thanjavur has further enhanced inflows.
This enhanced storage has provided considerable relief to farmers in the delta.
“The tanks around Pattukkottai and Peravurani in Thanjavur and Nagudi in Pudukkottai have impressive water storage this year. The samba paddy cultivation, which is heavily reliant on tank water, will greatly benefit,” shared a farmer from Pallathur in Thanjavur.
Officials are optimistic that with the northeast monsoon approaching in October, most system tanks will reach full capacity, ensuring water security for samba cultivation and bringing joy to the farming community.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the impressive turnaround in the agricultural scenario of Tamil Nadu's delta regions. The rise in water levels due to the steady inflow from the Cauvery River and favorable monsoon conditions underscores the resilience and adaptability of the farming community. This year brings renewed hope for a successful samba crop, essential for food security.
NationPress
02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the current water storage levels in Tamil Nadu's delta tanks?
Nearly two-thirds of the 737 system tanks have recorded over 50% storage, a substantial improvement compared to last year's figures.
How has the Cauvery water inflow affected farmers in the region?
The steady inflow has provided significant relief to farmers, improving their prospects for samba paddy cultivation.
What role does the Mettur dam play in water storage?
The timely release of water from the Mettur dam has been crucial in boosting the storage levels in the delta tanks this season.
Which districts are primarily affected by the water storage situation?
The key districts are Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Mayiladuthurai, and Pudukkottai.
What is expected with the upcoming northeast monsoon?
Officials are optimistic that most tanks will reach full capacity, ensuring water security for samba cultivation.
