Dip in quantum but Tamil Nadu to get assured Krishna water

In a fresh development, the AP officials have released water from Somasila dam to Kandaleru reservoir through a link canal to keep the level in the reservoir stable and subsequently open water to Poondi reservoir.  Tamil Nadu Public Works Department officials say that Poondi reservoir has so far received 0.65 tmc against the 2.5 tmc assured. However, officials are confident that the remaining share would also be released. 

“A few days ago, we were doubtful of getting the promised quantum of water from AP, due to the declining level in Kandaleru. We even thought that AP will suspend the release Krishna water. 

However, we received a fresh communication on Thursday night that water from Somasila dam in Nellore district was being released to Kandaleru reservoir to sustain the release to TN,” a senior PWD engineer said. 

He exuded confidence that Poondi reservoir would get the assured 2.5 tmc from Andhra Prdesh The flow at the entry point of the reservoir stood at 350 cusecs on Friday. However, since the quantum of discharge has been reduced to 1,250 cusecs, the level may decline in the coming days, said another engineer. 

“Water is being continuously released to Red Hills to cater to drinking water needs,” he added. Meanwhile, officials from the Chennai Metro Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB), who had tense moments for the past few days, heaved a sigh of relief as Krishna water started flowing in. 

“As of now, we fully depend on Krishna water, besides the two desalination plants. There has not been any interruption in the supply of metro water to the city. If the situation continues like this, we can somehow manage the supply till summer,” an official claimed.