India Faces Major Water Shortage Amid Heatwave Predictions

India is currently experiencing water crisis. Major reservoirs are at only 45 per cent of their total capacity. This situation arises as the India Meteorological Department predicts above-normal heatwave days from March to May. With the southwest monsoon still over two months away, the implications for agriculture and water supply are concerning.

Current Water Levels

As of March 20, 2025, live storage in 155 major reservoirs stands at 80.700 billion cubic metres. This is only 45 per cent of the total capacity of 180.8 billion cubic metres. States like Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Jharkhand are among those with lower storage levels compared to last year.

Regional Disparities

The northern region, comprising Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan, is particularly affected. Reservoirs here are at just 25 per cent of capacity. Himachal Pradesh and Punjab report a 36 per cent and 45 per cent departure from normal storage levels, respectively. The southern region, including Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, shows a live storage level of only 41 per cent.

Impact on Agriculture

The low water availability poses a threat to summer crops. These crops are sown during the transition from the Rabi to Kharif seasons. With daytime and nighttime temperatures already above normal, the lack of water could severely affect crop yields.

River Basin Conditions

Out of 20 river basins monitored, 14 are below 50 per cent storage. The Ganga river basin is at 50 per cent, while the Godavari, Narmada, and Krishna basins are at 48 per cent, 47 per cent, and 34 per cent, respectively. These river systems are critical for irrigation, drinking water, and electricity generation.

Socio-Economic Implications

The water shortage impacts socio-economic conditions across affected regions. Many communities rely on these water sources for their livelihoods. Reduced water supply can lead to increased poverty and food insecurity, affecting millions of people.

Future Considerations

The approaching monsoon season raises questions about whether it can replenish the dwindling water levels. The reliance on monsoon rains marks the vulnerability of India’s water management systems. Sustainable practices must be adopted to address these challenges.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the impact of water scarcity on agricultural productivity in India.
2. Discuss in the light of regional disparities, how water management can be improved in India.
3. Critically discuss the socio-economic effects of low water levels in major river basins of India.
4. With suitable examples, analyse the relationship between climate change and water availability in India.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the impact of water scarcity on agricultural productivity in India.

1. Water scarcity directly reduces irrigation availability, affecting crop yields.
2. Regions dependent on rain-fed agriculture face higher risks of crop failure.
3. Summer crops, particularly those sown between Rabi and Kharif seasons, are most vulnerable.
4. Increased temperatures exacerbate water evaporation and stress on crops.
5. Farmers may face economic losses, leading to increased food insecurity.

2. Discuss in the light of regional disparities, how water management can be improved in India.

1. Implementing region-specific water conservation techniques tailored to local climates.
2. Enhancing rainwater harvesting systems in drought-prone areas.
3. Investing in infrastructure for better water distribution and storage facilities.
4. Promoting sustainable agricultural practices to reduce water consumption.
5. Encouraging community participation in water management initiatives.

3. Critically discuss the socio-economic effects of low water levels in major river basins of India.

1. Low water levels lead to reduced agricultural output, impacting farmers’ incomes.
2. Communities relying on rivers for drinking water face health risks and water shortages.
3. Economic activities dependent on river transport and fisheries are adversely affected.
4. Increased competition for limited water resources can lead to social tensions.
5. Long-term poverty and food insecurity may rise due to sustained water shortages.

4. With suitable examples, analyse the relationship between climate change and water availability in India.

1. Climate change leads to erratic rainfall patterns, impacting water supply reliability.
2. Increased temperatures contribute to higher evaporation rates from water bodies.
3. Examples include altered monsoon patterns affecting states like Punjab and Himachal Pradesh.
4. Extreme weather events, such as floods and droughts, disrupt water availability.
5. Long-term climate projections indicate worsening water scarcity, necessitating adaptive measures.