MADURAI: The sudden spell of rains last week might have quelled the rising mercury levels. But the water managers are worried that the brief spell could do very little in mitigating the impending water shortage in Madurai.

The worry is not without reason. Despite the rains, the water level in Vaigai reservoir, the lifeline of Madurai and neighbouring southern districts remains at 46.9 feet and is slowly coming down further. PWD (public works department) authorities say that during the corresponding period last year, the water level was much higher at 52 feet. The dam at present holds 1,612 million cubic feet in contrast to 2,241 million cubic feet during the same period last year. PWD authorities say that the inflow into the dam was also not very encouraging. Water is being released at the rate of 60 cubic feet per second to meet the drinking water needs in the district.

Though water shortage stares at the city, Madurai municipal corporation authorities are maintaining that there would not be any problem. "We are aware of the water situation. But what we would like to tell the residents is not to worry. All arrangements have been made to ensure regular supply of water. We would supply water through tankers if any locality receives inadequate supply," said corporation commissioner R Nanthagopal.

But residents have already started feeling the pinch. Flash protests broke out at several residential areas as water supply diminished. "After our protest, water is being supplied to us in tankers. But we are worried if the supply would be regular in the coming months," said a resident of Race Course Colony.

In the week ending March 6, Madurai had received 14mm rainfall as against the normal 4.7mm during the period every year. But the rains have also done little to improve the groundwater level. "There is no substantial increase in the groundwater level. The surface was very parched due to successive monsoon failure and much of the rainfall was absorbed," said an official.

"Only if there is more rain in the coming days, we can assuage the situation," said the PWD official.

Meanwhile, residents are also worried about conducting the Chithirai Thiruvizha, when Lord Kallazhagar getting into river Vaigai is an important part of the festival. Every year, the festival is celebrated during the Tamil month of Chithirai (April). However, officials have planned to release additional water from Vaigai dam during the festival to facilitate the event.