Hyderabad: The KRMB (Krishna River Management Board) meeting scheduled for Thursday in Hyderabad is crucial due to low water levels in all state projects and reservoirs, posing a threat of water scarcity. Last year’s monsoon was weak, leading to minimal inflows.
The government is facing pressure to release water for irrigation, but officials have been instructed not to do so to prevent a drinking water crisis. Given this situation, the upcoming KRMB meeting holds significance. Irrigation officials plan to present a detailed report on the water shortage and discuss how Andhra Pradesh has utilized Krishna River’s water resources. The State government has been seeking a 50:50 share in Krishna water, as the current distribution stands at 34:66 between Telangana and AP since 2014.
Telangana’s water demand has risen due to new irrigation projects and the mission Bhagiratha for drinking water needs. On the other hand, AP has filed a complaint against Telangana for exceeding their allotted water by six tmc-ft. Telangana will justify its need for additional water at the KRMB meeting to address the impending water crisis.
In brighter news, India is expected to have above-average rainfall this year according to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APCC) Climate Center’s monsoon forecast. This update contrasts with previous predictions of low rainfall, attributed to an anticipated shift from El Nino to La Nina conditions.
The APCC’s ENSO alert system update on March 15, 2024, predicts a La Nina Watch from April to September 2024. The report indicates increased chances of above-normal precipitation in various regions including India, East Asia, and Australia. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) also anticipates abundant rainfall during the monsoon season this year, with reduced El Nino influence and significant La-Nina conditions in the Pacific region after May.
