Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Apr 26: As the summer heat intensifies, the water level at the Thumbe vented dam, the primary source of drinking water for Mangaluru city, has plummeted to 4.47 metres. This marks the lowest level recorded in the past seven years. In response to the crisis, the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) has announced water rationing starting from May 1, with supply to be provided on alternate days.
Sharp decline in water storage
The current situation is attributed to a significant shortfall in pre-monsoon showers. In 2025, the district received 119.7 mm of rainfall by April 25, keeping the Thumbe water level at a comfortable 5.35 metres. However, this year, the region has recorded only 41.2 mm of rain. Consequently, the inflow into the dam stopped as early as the end of March.
The current level of 4.47 metres is the lowest since 2017, when it touched 4.18 metres. With Mangaluru requiring approximately 160 MLD (million litres per day) of water, the current storage is critical. According to officials, a level of 4.50 metres can sustain the city for about 30 days, while a level of 4 metres would only last for 23 days.
Despite the low levels at Thumbe, officials noted that stored water at AMR, Biliyoor, and Jakribettu dams in Bantwal may help mitigate the severity of the shortage.
Rationing and supply schedule
Starting May 1, water rationing will be officially implemented across Mangaluru city and Surathkal areas. Water will be supplied on an alternate-day basis to stretch the existing reserves until the arrival of the monsoon, which is expected by the end of May. Authorities warned that if pre-monsoon or monsoon rains are further delayed, the city could face a severe crisis.
Appeal for judicial water use
The city corporation has issued an urgent appeal to citizens to prioritize drinking water and avoid wastage. Residents have been instructed to refrain from using tap water for non-essential purposes, such as washing cars, two-wheelers, and rickshaws, gardening, or bathing animals.