Sri Sailam project to tap dead storage during droughts: Official

The Sri Sailam Lift Bypass Canal (SLBC) project is expected to unlock access to dead storage water at the Sri Sailam reservoir, offering critical relief during drought years, according to project officials.

Dead storage refers to water that accumulates below the minimum operating level of a reservoir and cannot be drawn through conventional outlets. The SLBC project aims to extract and redirect this water for beneficial use, particularly during periods of water scarcity.

The initiative addresses long-standing challenges in water management across South India's drought-prone regions. By utilizing previously stranded water reserves, the project could significantly enhance water availability for agricultural, industrial, and domestic consumption across command areas dependent on the Sri Sailam reservoir.

The project is expected to provide a dual benefit by improving drought resilience while optimizing the utilization of existing water infrastructure. Officials have indicated that once fully operational, the SLBC could serve as a crucial mechanism for managing seasonal and cyclical water stress in the region.

The development comes as water management authorities increasingly focus on innovative approaches to maximize resource utilization and ensure sustainable supply across competing demands.