Kochi: The Malabar region is heading for an acute water scarcity in coming months due to depletion of surface and ground water levels caused by the shortage of north-east monsoon by more than 20 per cent, according to the analysis made by the Kozhikode-based Centre for Water Resources Development and Management (CWRDM). Kasargod, Palakkad and Thrissur are the worst hit followed by Kozhikode and Malappuaram, the analysis based on the rainfall pattern in the districts in the region found.
The situation in central and southern districts are relatively better-off, Dr. P.V. Dinesan, head, geomatics division and senior principal scientist, told DC on Tuesday. The data from highland regions of Kozhikode has shown water depletion to the levels of one metre, while it was 50-60 cm in midland region around 20-35 cm in coastal region. "The situation is similar in Kasargod, Palakkad and Thrissur," he said.
The winter rains in January and February was better in Kasargod and Palakkad but was not enough to cover the 38 per cent deficit suffered during north-east monsoon season. Thrissur suffering from 29 per cent deficit in north-east monsoon is facing 66 percent deficit in winter rains.
"We have advised the authorities to cut water consumption to the maximum level possible and make all possible steps for conservation of the water," Dr. Dinesan said.
