In response to a significant decrease in water storage, officials have announced the suspension of water discharge for agricultural purposes from the Jayakwadi Dam in Paithan, Maharashtra's Aurangabad district. The dam's storage level has plummeted to a critical 26.93 percent of its total capacity. Consequently, the remaining water stock will be allocated solely for drinking water supply, according to an official statement released on Monday.
The Jayakwadi Dam plays a vital role in providing water to Aurangabad, Jalna, and the surrounding areas for both drinking and industrial purposes. It typically supplies 0.29 million cubic metres (MCM) of water each day.
However, due to the dam's dwindling water reserves, authorities have implemented a mandatory restriction on agricultural water discharge when the storage level falls below 33 percent. This restriction was enforced on June 30, leading to the suspension of water supply for farming activities. The decision to resume water supply for agricultural purposes will be made once the dam's storage level is replenished, the official further stated.
The authorities will closely monitor the situation and evaluate the water levels regularly to determine when it is safe and sustainable to resume the supply.
Water scarcity is a critical concern in many regions of Maharashtra, particularly during the dry season. The state's farmers heavily depend on irrigation water to cultivate crops, and any disruption in water supply can have a severe impact on agricultural productivity and livelihoods. Consequently, it is crucial for the Jayakwadi Dam's storage level to recover adequately before allowing water to be discharged for agriculture.
Efforts are being made by the local administration and concerned stakeholders to manage the water situation effectively. Measures such as rainwater harvesting, water conservation campaigns, and responsible water usage are being encouraged to mitigate the effects of the water scarcity crisis.
