With the monsoon playing truant, the spectre of a grim water scenario looms large. Nearly two months after the monsoon set in, there have been practically no inflows into the major reservoirs that supply water to the twin cities. Osmansagar received a negligible 0.003 tmc water, while the Himayatsagar has got nothing. Same is the case with Manjira and Akkampally (Krishna water).
The only saving grace is Singur which has received 0.933 tmc water.
The Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board is, however, not unduly perturbed. It has taken note of the scant inflows but has not pressed the panic button yet.
“August and September are the two months when we normally receive copious rainfall. We are hoping for the best,” said M. Jagadeeshwar, managing director of HMWSSB. Even if the monsoon fails the board is confident of maintaining the present supplies of 340 mgd till June 2012. The existing levels in the reservoirs are considered sufficient to tide over the situation.
However, the falling groundwater table is a cause for worry. Since the water supply is complemented by groundwater, its depleting levels would increase pressure on piped water.
