Storage in Raj reservoirs drops sharply to 52% capacity, raising summer water concerns

Jaipur: Water levels in Rajasthan’s major reservoirs have dropped sharply, falling to 52.24% as of April 1, 2026, from 90.51% at the end of the monsoon last Sept, official data shows.

According to data, nearly half the water stored after the monsoon was already used up in six months. Out of a total capacity of 13,029.091 million cubic metres (Mcum), current storage stands at 6,806.389 Mcum.

The stress is clearly visible in western and northern districts like Barmer, Jaisalmer and Jodhpur, where average dam levels have dropped to around 25%. With peak summer still ahead, this is raising serious concerns.

Across the state, the picture is uneven. Of the 693 reservoirs, 227 are already empty, 452 are partially filled, and only 14 are full. Smaller reservoirs seem to be drying up faster, with 171 in that category already empty.

In Jaipur, the contrast is striking. While Kanota dam is still full, others are running low—Khard at 16.99%, Hingonia at just 5.09%, Ramsagar (Newta) at 30.58%, and Patan completely dry.

With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicating temperatures hovering around 45°C, demand for water is already climbing. In parts of western Rajasthan, villagers are increasingly depending on water tankers, with longer gaps between supplies. In cities, including Jaipur, residents are noticing lower pressure and shorter supply hours, especially during peak demand. In some localities, queues at public taps and hand pumps are getting longer as the mercury rises.

“With temperatures already crossing 45C, demand is going up quickly. The next 8-10 weeks will be critical before the monsoon arrives,” said a senior water resources official.

Officials say they are preparing for the weeks ahead, with plans for regulated supply, more tankers and closer monitoring of key reservoirs.

Policy planner Malvika Mudgal said the pace of decline is a concern. “Seasonal drop is expected, but the speed at which levels are falling in some regions could create pressure on both drinking water and irrigation if the monsoon is delayed,” she said.

For now, the situation is manageable—but just about. If the heat continues and the monsoon is delayed, many parts of Rajasthan could be looking at tighter water schedules and greater dependence on tankers in the coming weeks.

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RAJASTHAN WATER CRISIS – KEY FIGURES

Overall Storage Status

Total Capacity: 13,029.091 Mcum

Current Storage: 6,806.389 Mcum

Current Level: 52.24%

Post-Monsoon Level (Sept 2025): 90.51%

Nearly half the water depleted in 6 months

Reservoir Status (Total: 693)

Empty: 227

Partially Filled: 452

Full: 14

Majority reservoirs under stress

Worst-Hit Regions

Western & Northern Rajasthan

Key districts: Barmer, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur

Average storage: ~25%

Average storage: ~25%