Despite Kerala witnessing substantial summer rainfall since March 1, 2025, water storage in the state’s hydel reservoirs remains worryingly low. As of April 8, the reservoirs managed by the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) are operating at just 46% capacity.
This trend mirrors previous years, where heavy rains failed to translate into adequate reservoir inflow. In May 2024, the Idukki reservoir – one of the state’s major power sources – saw alarmingly low levels, largely due to poor rainfall in its key catchment areas. Similarly, in September 2023, despite a revival of the southwest monsoon, the overall storage in KSEB reservoirs stagnated at 37%, identical to mid-August levels.
These recurring patterns underline a critical issue: it’s not just about how much it rains, but where it rains. Consistent and targeted rainfall in the catchment zones is vital to replenish reservoirs and ensure a reliable supply for hydroelectric power generation across the state.
