Cauvery Basin Tensions Ease as Karnataka Releases Water Amid Rising Inflows

Karnataka's decision to let about 12,000 cusecs flow out of the Kabini reservoir marks a significant step toward easing the heightened tensions over Cauvery water sharing. The move follows weeks of heavy rainfall that dramatically increased inflow rates across the basin.

According to the Water Resources Department, the water will reach the Bilgundalu gauging station on the inter‑state boundary by the end of Monday. From there, the flow is expected to continue downstream to the Mettur reservoir, with a likely arrival window on Tuesday or Wednesday.

River officials emphasized that the exact arrival time is subject to the river's current condition, including water level, channel capacity, and seasonal losses. They also noted that sections of the Cauvery have remained relatively dry, which could temporarily slow the transit of water.

The Kabini reservoir, which can hold 19,516 million cubic feet (Mcft), rose from 26.59% storage on July 1 to 82.65% by July 31, driven by inflow peaks of over 9,000 cusecs. Simultaneously, the Krishnaraja Sagar (KRS) reservoir has also experienced increased inflow due to the same monsoon event.

State officials from Tamil Nadu have criticized Karnataka for a delayed release despite directives from the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee and the Cauvery Water Management Authority. Nevertheless, the latest discharge is expected to bring relief to farmers in the Cauvery delta ahead of the upcoming cropping season.