Will Chennai Receive Krishna Water from Andhra Pradesh by Friday?
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Synopsis
Chennai is on track to receive essential Krishna River water from Andhra Pradesh this Friday, overcoming a temporary supply interruption due to repair work. This crucial resource plays a significant role in meeting the city’s drinking water demand, especially during the scorching summer months.
Key Takeaways
- Krishna River water is vital for Chennai's drinking supply.
- The supply was temporarily stopped for repairs.
- Water from Kandaleru reservoir is expected to reach Tamil Nadu by Friday.
- Chennai's reservoirs are currently at 64.4% capacity.
- Interstate cooperation is essential for effective resource management.
Chennai, May 8 (NationPress) - The city is set to receive water from the Krishna River sourced from Andhra Pradesh by early Friday morning, following a brief interruption in supply for necessary repairs along the water canal.
As per the officials from the Water Resources Department (WRD), the water from the Kandaleru reservoir is anticipated to arrive at the Tamil Nadu border by Thursday evening or the early hours of Friday.
The supply was temporarily halted by authorities in Andhra Pradesh to conduct repairs on the sluice gate of the Kandaleru-Poondi (KP) canal near Kalahasti.
The Krishna River serves as a vital source for Chennai, especially during the peak summer months when the demand for drinking water escalates.
The Poondi reservoir located in Tiruvallur district, which stores Krishna water before distributing it to the Red Hills reservoir for city supply, had not received inflows since April 24.
Nevertheless, WRD officials confirmed that Andhra Pradesh resumed water release earlier this week as promised.
The Kandaleru reservoir currently contains approximately 44,000 million cubic feet of water.
On Wednesday, the water discharge was ramped up to 1,170 cubic feet per second (cusecs) to maintain a steady flow.
“The canal bed is dry, leading to slower water movement. Currently, the water has covered 70 km between Venkatagiri and Kalahasti and needs to travel an additional 82 km to reach the Tamil Nadu border at Uthukottai,” stated a senior WRD official.
Authorities in Andhra Pradesh have assured Tamil Nadu that they will further increase the discharge rate to expedite the flow.
The water released via the KP canal also meets the drinking and irrigation needs of Tirupati and Kalahasti before reaching Chennai.
The WRD estimates that approximately 500 cusecs will be delivered at the zero point of the KP canal at Uthukottai.
Since March 29, Krishna water has contributed 600 million cubic feet (mcft) to Chennai's reservoirs, enhancing their storage capacity for nearly a month.
The WRD anticipates sustained supplies until the end of June, aiding in the replenishment of essential water bodies and maintaining daily supply.
At present, Chennai Metrowater is providing 1,087 million litres of water daily.
The five reservoirs in Tiruvallur district, which account for the majority of the city’s drinking water, are currently at 64.4 percent of their combined capacity of 11,757 mcft.
The Veeranam tank in Cuddalore district is also assisting in the city’s water distribution.
Point of View
The consistent supply of Krishna River water is critical for Chennai, particularly during summer. The timely resumption of water flow from Andhra Pradesh not only addresses immediate drinking water needs but also reinforces interstate cooperation in resource management.
NationPress
22/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Chennai expected to receive Krishna water?
Chennai is expected to receive Krishna River water from Andhra Pradesh by early Friday morning.
What caused the temporary halt in water supply?
The water supply was temporarily suspended due to necessary repair work on the sluice gate of the Kandaleru-Poondi canal.
How much water is currently in the Kandaleru reservoir?
The Kandaleru reservoir currently holds approximately 44,000 million cubic feet of water.
What is the importance of Krishna water for Chennai?
Krishna River water is crucial for Chennai, especially during peak summer months when the demand for drinking water increases significantly.
How much water is Chennai Metrowater supplying daily?
Chennai Metrowater is currently supplying 1,087 million litres of water per day.
