Maharashtra Declares Drought in 265 Talukas Amid 18 Percent Rainfall Deficit
· India · Indian Express, LiveMint
The Maharashtra government has declared a drought in 265 out of the state's 358 talukas across 36 districts following an 18 percent rainfall deficit during the monsoon season. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described the crisis as the worst the state has endured since 1972. From June 1 to September 26, the state received 798.2 mm of rainfall against a normal 970.9 mm, with 31 districts classified as rain-deficient. Prolonged dry spells exceeding 20 to 60 days severely damaged the kharif crop sown across 147 lakh hectares. Consequently, the state government has directed municipal bodies and gram panchayats to enforce a minimum 10 percent water cut starting October 16.
Why it matters
The severe water deficit threatens agricultural output, rural livelihoods, and drinking water supplies across Maharashtra, necessitating immediate resource rationing.
Read the original report — Indian Express
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