Storage levels in Kerala’s Idukki reservoir cross 50% amid El Niño concerns
Amid concerns over the El Niño effect, the water level in the Idukki reservoir, the State’s major hydel power project, crossed 51% of its total
Amid concerns over the El Niño effect, the water level in the Idukki reservoir, the State’s major hydel power project, crossed 51% of its total storage capacity on Monday (August 10, 2026). According to Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) dam safety wing officials, the storage in the reservoir was recorded at 2,355.60 ft on Monday, which is 51% of its total capacity. On the same day last year, the water level stood at 2,376.62 ft (70%). Compared to last year’s levels, storage in the dam is currently lower by 21.02 ft.
A KSEB dam safety official said that 10 days of heavy rainfall helped the reservoir reach healthy storage levels. “The sudden, extreme rainfall in the catchment areas of the dam resulted in a rapid increase in storage. The water level in the reservoir was 2,328 ft in the last week of July, and it has now risen to 2,355 ft. As light to moderate rain continues, the reservoir is receiving a steady inflow, which will help raise the water level in the coming days,” the official said. “The KSEB expects continued rain and inflow in the coming months.
Storage is currently at 51%, and once it reaches 75%, the KSEB will be able to manage the State’s power demand for the upcoming summer season,” the official added. The official further noted that due to the El Niño effect and low storage in June and July, the KSEB had been deeply concerned about power generation. “If the low-rainfall situation of June and July had continued in Idukki in August, it would have severely affected the power sector in the State. However, the situation has now improved,” the official said.
Power generation According to officials, power generation at the Moolamattam power plant continues at a moderate level, with the plant generating 3.315 MU on Sunday. The water level across major hydel dams in the State rose to 53% on Monday. Meanwhile, the district continues to face a 44% rainfall deficit as of August 10, according to IMD data. Against the normal expected rainfall of 1,820.5 mm by August 10, the district has received only 1,016.5 mm.
The BriefWire