Water levels in the Bhakra and Thein dams have dipped below normal, attributed to a delayed monsoon and deficient pre-monsoon rainfall across northwest India. These reservoirs are critical for irrigation and power generation in the region. Until early this week, both dams had above-normal storage, according to the Central Water Commission (CWC). In contrast, the Pong Dam continues to maintain above-normal water levels.
Bhakra Dam Storage Declines
As per CWC data released on June 25, the water level in the Bhakra Dam on the Sutlej River in Himachal Pradesh stands at 21.84% of its total capacity, compared to the 10-year average of 24.55%. Storage was 25.22% last week and 29.60% at the start of June. On June 26, the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) reported a water level of 1,559.95 feet against a maximum of 1,680 feet, with inflows of 17,341 cusecs and outflows of 29,650 cusecs.
Thein Dam Storage Also Below Average
At the Thein Dam on the Ravi River in Punjab, storage is 35.92% of capacity, below the 10-year average of 42.32%. It was 41.13% last week and 53.38% at the beginning of June. The water level is 1,656 feet, against a permissible limit of 1,732 feet.
Pong Dam Defies Trend
The Pong Dam on the Beas River in Himachal Pradesh is filled to about 27.35% of capacity, well above the 10-year average of 18.45%. It was 29.57% last week and 35.10% at the start of June. On June 26, the water level was 1,319.62 feet against a maximum of 1,390 feet, with inflows of 3,665 cusecs and outflows of 16,855 cusecs.
National Reservoir Status
Nationally, storage in 166 major reservoirs stands at 48.40% of capacity, slightly above the normal 45.8%. However, levels are deficient in eastern and southern regions, according to the CWC.
Rule Curve and Rainfall Deficit
BBMB officials noted that water releases follow a “Rule Curve” developed two years ago, which sets ideal reservoir levels based on forecasts, inflows, and demand. Earlier this month, states were advised to maximize water use to create flood cushioning ahead of the monsoon. But rainfall has faltered, with the monsoon yet to enter Uttar Pradesh. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted below-normal monsoon this year. Rainfall in June has been 31% below average in Himachal Pradesh and 30% below in Punjab and Haryana. Showers are expected in the region until July 2.
