Water levels in major reservoirs in Tamil Nadu’s Erode district, including the Bhavanisagar dam, are decreasing, causing concerns for farmers who rely on it for irrigation. Bhavanisagar, a crucial irrigation reservoir, serves agricultural areas in Erode, Tirupur, and Karur districts. The dam’s storage has been dropping steadily due to outflows surpassing inflows.
The latest data shows the water level in Bhavanisagar dam at 54.86 feet, with only 76 cusecs of inflow while 520 cusecs were released for irrigation and drinking water needs. A significant portion of the discharge, 420 cusecs, was channeled for irrigation through the Thadapalli-Arakankottai canal system. Additionally, 100 cusecs were released into the Bhavani River for drinking water supply to towns and villages.
Farmers have raised concerns about water diversion to the Athikadavu-Avinashi project due to declining storage in Bhavanisagar. The decreasing water levels in other major reservoirs in Erode district, such as Gunderipallam, Perumpallam, and Varattupallam dams, indicate a general decline in water availability. Bhavanisagar’s importance in sustaining over 2.47 lakh acres of farmland in the region underscores the need for close monitoring and adequate rainfall.
Adequate rainfall in the reservoir’s catchment areas is crucial to enhance inflows, replenish storage, and ensure water availability for future irrigation needs. With monsoon activity yet to significantly impact inflows, farmers are hopeful for widespread rainfall in the upcoming weeks to reverse the declining trend and support the agricultural sector.
