Kerala farmers hit by water shortage as Tamil Nadu cuts supply

Chittur farmers are grappling with a severe water crisis as Tamil Nadu releases substantially less water than contractually committed, raising concerns over irrigation prospects and crop viability in the region. Former Kerala Minister Krishnankutty highlighted the disparity, noting that the state was entitled to 400 cubic feet of water during the current 15-day cycle but has received only 100 cubic feet into the Chittur River.

The significant shortfall represents a 75 per cent reduction from agreed allocations, threatening agricultural operations across the farming belt dependent on the Chittur River for irrigation. The reduced supply comes at a critical juncture in the agricultural calendar, compounding concerns among cultivators already facing mounting input costs and climatic uncertainties.

The water-sharing arrangement between Kerala and Tamil Nadu has been a persistent point of contention, with periodic disputes over allocation quantities and release schedules. Officials attributed the shortfall to water availability constraints in Tamil Nadu, though farmers' representatives expressed skepticism over the explanation.

Local agricultural bodies have appealed to the Kerala government to take up the matter with Tamil Nadu authorities at the highest levels, seeking restoration of committed water supplies. The incident underscores the fragility of interstate water-sharing agreements in South India and their direct impact on farming communities.