Chennai Reservoirs Almost Full: Water Levels Reach 88.85% After Cyclone Ditwah Rains
The continuous heavy rainfall triggered by Cyclone Ditwah has sharply increased the water levels in Chennai’s five major drinking-water reservoirs. As of Thursday, the combined storage in Poondi, Puzhal, Kannankottai, Chembarambakkam and Cholavaram lakes has reached 88.85% of total capacity, ensuring a strong water position for the city.
Heavy Rains Boost Inflow in Catchment Areas
Northern Tamil Nadu has been receiving intense rainfall over the past few days, leading to a significant rise in inflow into Chennai’s primary lakes. All major reservoirs recorded rapid water level increases since November 23, improving the city’s water storage by 10% in just 11 days.
Reservoir-Wise Water Level Status
Poondi Lake
Total Capacity: 3,231 Mcft
Current Storage: 2,960 Mcft (91.61%)
Inflow: 1,950 cusecs
Puzhal (Red Hills) Lake
Total Capacity: 3,300 Mcft
Current Storage: 3,166 Mcft (95.94%)
Inflow: 1,884 cusecs
Kannankottai–Thervoy Kandigai Lake
Total Capacity: 500 Mcft
Current Storage: 464 Mcft (92.80%)
Since these three lakes have crossed 90% storage, authorities have initiated precautionary surplus water release to ensure safety.
Chembarambakkam Lake
Total Capacity: 3,645 Mcft
Current Storage: 3,208 Mcft (88.01%)
Inflow: 1,425 cusecs
Cholavaram Lake
Total Capacity: 1,081 Mcft
Current Storage: 648 Mcft (59.94%)
Overall Water Storage Summary
Total Capacity (5 lakes): 11,757 Mcft
Current Storage: 10,446 Mcft
Total Filled: 88.85%
Compared to 78% on November 23, the water level has risen significantly due to the widespread rainfall caused by Cyclone Ditwah.
Officials have confirmed that continuous monitoring is underway, and additional releases will be made if inflow increases further.
