Kochi Water Crisis: Thammanam Tank Bursts, Homes Flooded

Kochi woke up to a sudden water crisis early Monday when a wall of one chamber of the Kerala Water Authority’s twin-chamber tank at Thammanam caved in, releasing a torrent that flooded homes and damaged properties.

The 50-year-old ground-level reservoir has a total capacity of 1.35 crore litres, and it was holding about 1.15 crore litres at the time of the collapse. The breach sent water gushing into nearby houses, washing away compound walls and damaging household items, furniture, and vehicles. Fortunately, the disaster occurred in the early hours when streets were largely deserted, and casualties were avoided.

Drinking water supply to roughly 30% of the Kochi Corporation, along with adjoining Cheranalloor panchayat and parts of Thripunithura and Pettah, was disrupted. An excavator was deployed to clear debris from affected homes as officials began assessing the damage. Initial estimates place property damage at around ₹12 lakh.

The pump house that feeds this region supplies water to areas within the Corporation limits, Thripunithura, and Cheranalloor. The tank is located along the Thammanam–Ponnuru road, a reminder of the city’s aging infrastructure challenge.

Minister for Water Resources Roshy Augustine visited the site and said every measure would be taken to prevent further disruption, with restoration targeted by Tuesday. The Managing Director of KWA was expected to arrive in Kochi to coordinate relief and repair efforts. The incident has intensified calls for a broader review of water infrastructure and reliability in the area.

Cover image source: Massive water tank collapse at Thammanam in Kochi floods houses; vehicles damaged 🔗

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