Madurai’s Chithirai Festival Under Drought Shadow

The Chithirai festival in Madurai faces uncertainty as water release for the iconic Kallazhagar entering the Vaigai river ritual has been disrupted due to critically low levels in the Vaigai dam. The water level has dropped to 33 feet against its full capacity of 71 feet, making it difficult to release the usual volume of water. Prolonged dry conditions and lack of rainfall have halted inflow, raising concerns over drinking water supply.

Affected Areas and Situation:
Madurai city, Vaigai river, Vaigai dam, Mullaperiyar dam
Water level reduced to 33 feet from 71 feet, reservoir area shrunk from 10 sq km to 2 sq km, only 518 million cubic feet available, sufficient for just one month of drinking water
Failure of monsoon rains, drought in catchment areas, reduced inflow from Mullaperiyar dam, ongoing water management challenges
Difficulty in releasing 216 million cubic feet for ritual, possible alternative arrangements using tanker water, temporary storage structures at ritual site, disappointment among devotees

The Vaigai dam, once resembling a vast water body, now appears like a shrinking pond, highlighting the severity of the drought. Authorities are cautious about releasing water as it may lead to an acute drinking water shortage in Madurai.

In previous drought years, similar challenges were managed by transporting water via tankers and creating temporary holding structures at the ritual site. A similar contingency plan is likely to be implemented this year to ensure the continuity of the religious event.

Officials have urged the public to use water judiciously as the city braces for a potential shortage in the coming weeks.