Water Budget

Delampady Grama Panchayat Water Budget Report – Summary

This Water Budget Report is a comprehensive study prepared by assessing the water availability, water demand, and water conservation potential of Delampady Grama Panchayat. The report was prepared with the support of Haritha Kerala Mission, Centre for Water Resources Development and Management (CWRDM), and various government departments.

Key Features

  • Delampady Grama Panchayat is situated in the Kaaradka Block Panchayat of Kasaragod District.
  • The Panchayat covers an area of approximately 79.5 square kilometres.
  • As per the 2011 Census, the population is 22,773.
  • Around 45% of the Panchayat area consists of forest land.
  • Major agricultural crops include arecanut, coconut, rubber, cashew, and paddy.

Rainfall and Water Availability

  • The Panchayat receives an average annual rainfall of about 3500–3800 mm.
  • The southwest monsoon season from June to September is the main rainy period.
  • Rainwater is the primary source of water in the Panchayat.

Water Demand

  • The report estimates water demand in sectors such as domestic use, agriculture, commercial activities, livestock, and tourism.
  • The estimated daily water requirement per person is 135 litres.
  • A large quantity of water is utilized for agricultural purposes.
  • Separate water demand calculations have been made for crops such as coconut, arecanut, banana, and paddy.

Identification of Water Scarcity

  • Water scarcity is experienced in the Panchayat from January to the end of May.
  • However, on an annual basis, the Panchayat has a water surplus.
  • The total annual water availability is estimated at 107.76 million cubic metres, while the total water demand is 61.65 million cubic metres.
  • The report states that the Panchayat has an annual water surplus of approximately 46.10 million cubic metres.

Recommendations

The report suggests the following water conservation measures:

  • Promote large-scale rainwater harvesting
  • Protect and rejuvenate water sources
  • Encourage efficient water use in the agricultural sector
  • Renovate and improve existing water storage systems
  • Implement integrated projects to reduce summer water scarcity
  • Formulate special measures to control water wastage

Conclusion

Although Delampady Grama Panchayat has abundant rainfall and water resources, climate change and uneven distribution of rainfall result in water scarcity during the summer season. The report concludes that strengthening scientific water conservation activities and public participation can ensure the Panchayat’s long-term water security.

 

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