# South Asian water scarcity and reservoir depletion

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/south-asian-water-scarcity-and-reservoir-depletion
> Updated: 2026-08-23T05:42:54.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

Water scarcity is increasing across South Asia due to declining rainfall and falling reservoir levels. In Sri Lanka, major reservoirs have dropped to approximately 36% of total capacity, creating significant risks for irrigation-dependent agriculture in the North Central, Northern, and Eastern provinces.

In India, a weak southwest monsoon has severely impacted the Siruvani Dam. The catchment area in Kerala recorded only 7 mm to 8 mm of rainfall, far below the 50 mm to 100 mm required to boost levels. Consequently, the Tamil Nadu Water Supply and Drainage Board has reduced the daily drinking water supply to Coimbatore from 65 million litres to 55 million litres. 

To manage the shortage, the Tamil Nadu and Kerala governments are collaborating on maintenance plans to stop leaks. Additionally, the Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation has submitted a proposal for an 18 crore rupee reservoir repair project to the Tamil Nadu government.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-23: Siruvani Dam water supply reduced due to weak monsoon

Weak monsoon rains in Kerala have lowered Siruvani Dam levels, forcing authorities to reduce daily water supply to Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, from 65 MLD to 55 MLD.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/siruvani-dam-water-supply-reduced-due-to-weak-monsoon

### 2026-08-23: Water scarcity rises in Sri Lanka and India amid low rainfall

Declining rainfall is causing water shortages in Sri Lanka and India, with Sri Lankan reservoirs at 36% capacity and drinking water supplies being reduced in Coimbatore, India.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/water-scarcity-rises-in-sri-lanka-and-india-amid-low-rainfall

---
Cite as: South Asian water scarcity and reservoir depletion. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/south-asian-water-scarcity-and-reservoir-depletion