Good water levels at KRS, Kabini reservoir bring relief to residents

Mysuru: As Karnataka enters peak summer season, encouraging water levels at the Krishna Raja Sagara dam (KRS) and the Kabini reservoir has brought significant relief to both authorities and lakhs of residents who depend on these reservoirs for drinking water.The KRS dam currently stands at 113.8 feet, against its maximum capacity of 124.8 feet. Officials note that the storage level is almost on a par with the corresponding period last year, providing confidence that there will be no immediate drinking water crisis. The reservoir serves as a lifeline for Mysuru, Mandya, Ramanagara, and Bengaluru, meeting both domestic and irrigation requirements. Apart from supplying drinking water to major urban centres, KRS also plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the Cauvery basin region.Meanwhile, the Kabini reservoir, another key drinking water source for Mysuru and Bengaluru, recorded a water level of 2,271.99 feet, compared to its full reservoir level of 2,284 feet. Though slightly lower than last year's 2,275.3 feet during the same period, officials maintain that the current storage is sufficient to meet present needs.Jayanth V, executive engineer, Cauvery Neeravari Nigam, said water availability this year is adequate to cater to the drinking and agricultural demands of Mandya, Mysuru, and Bengaluru. He said that while the situation is comfortable at present, scientific planning and prudent water management will be essential in the coming months to avoid any unexpected shortages.Authorities reassured the public that there is no cause for alarm, but appealed to citizens to use water responsibly and avoid wastage to ensure sustained supply throughout the summer.