Thiruvananthapuram: The Neyyar dam which has been ‘overtaxed’ during the worst drought of century was still not out of red due to negative 22 per cent departure in monsoon. Steady flow from catchment areas was reported since May 29 at Peppara dam that feeds the city. However, this is not the case with bigger Neyyar reservoir that caters to the irrigation needs of district.
“The water level in Neyyar dam is less than 75m. Despite normal inflow, the rise in level is not significant to make any difference. The water will get over quicker, before summer as its primary purpose is irrigation. Its minimum drawable limit was 68m,” said irrigation officials. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on April 18 had forecast this year’s monsoon rains at 96 per cent of a 50-year average of 89 cm. In Kerala, however there is a dip in monsoons even in July.
