Erraticrainfalland changingclimatehas furthered the challenges ofdam water managementin the state, even more so in the case of shared operations betweenKeralaand Nadu.
This year, erratic rainfall events have been more frequent, causing disruptions in reservoir management. The short-duration intense rains have been recorded more this year. For eg, on Oct 11, there was 10cm rainfall reported in just four hours which impacted Chalakudy river, Kerala Sholayar, Peringalkuthu and Parambikulam Dams. Following this sudden rainfall event, there was much hue and cry saying dam waters were released.
While rule curve is an indicator, authorities should take a call to release water before the levels increase downstream. Hence, when Mullaperiyar water levels are being fixed, the Idukki dam situation should also be kept in mind.