Mumbai, October 1 (Daily Kiran) : The monsoon season in Maharashtra has been marked by significant disparities in rainfall this year. According to Vikram Singh, director of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the state typically receives about 90% of its annual rainfall between June and September. However, this year’s distribution has been uneven, with some regions, particularly Marathwada, experiencing notable shortages.
Singh explained that the monsoon’s onset in June was weak, with rainfall activities only picking up towards the end of the month, specifically between June 23 and 25. During this period, northern Maharashtra and the Konkan-Goa region saw relatively higher rainfall, while Marathwada recorded less precipitation.
In July, Maharashtra benefitted from good rainfall, with most of the month seeing above-normal levels, apart from a single week. July was the standout month for rainfall during the monsoon season. However, rainfall activity dwindled again in August and September, with many areas of Maharashtra receiving below-normal precipitation. While parts of Konkan-Goa and central Maharashtra experienced near-normal rainfall, Marathwada and some areas of Vidarbha faced severe deficits.
The IMD director noted that Marathwada recorded a rainfall deficit of approximately 40%. Hingoli district faced the most significant drop at nearly 49%, followed by Jalna at around 48% and Dharashiv at about 45%. Other districts in Vidarbha, including Amravati and Washim, also reported below-normal rainfall.
By September 30, out of 17 weeks of the monsoon period, only five to six weeks experienced normal or above-normal rainfall. The remaining 11 to 12 weeks saw below-normal precipitation.
Singh expressed concerns about the potential impact of this uneven rainfall distribution on water resources. Continuous and adequate rainfall is essential for replenishing groundwater, rivers, and streams, ensuring water availability throughout the year. While heavy rains in July increased water levels in some sources, the intensity of the downpour led to rapid runoff, making groundwater recharge less effective.
He warned that the lack of consistent rainfall could affect water availability in rivers and streams in the coming months, which may have repercussions for agriculture, drinking water supply, and hydropower generation.
In light of these challenges, Singh emphasized the need for departments related to irrigation and water supply to manage water use and availability carefully. Timely planning is crucial regarding irrigation methods, water supply, and potential water cuts.
The anticipated impact on agriculture in rainfall-deficient areas like Marathwada necessitates a focus on prudent water management and resource utilization in the months ahead.
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