KOCHI: With a current distribution shortfall of 50 to 60 million litres per day, Kochi is staring at a drinking water crisis, especially if the heatwave in the state worsens in the coming months as the northeast monsoon eases. In the absence of new projects, the water shortage is expected to be severe, particularly in the interiors. The paucity has badly affected residents in the northern reaches of the city, especially the four divisions from Kacheripady to Vaduthala. Kadamakkudy, Cheranallur and Chellanam have also reported severe deficits over the past several weeks. Though disruptions wer...