Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar District Collector Vinay Gowda GC on Tuesday inspected stressed crops in Gangapur taluka
Marathwada Faces Drought Concerns Amidst Lack of Rainfall
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, part of the Marathwada region, has experienced a concerning lack of rainfall, averaging under 7mm over the past few days. Notably, the area recorded no precipitation in the 24 hours ending Tuesday morning, heightening alarm for the region’s rain-fed agriculture.
The absence of rain, combined with rising temperatures and humidity, has negated the brief relief that farmers experienced earlier this month. Although recent rainfall had temporarily alleviated stress on wilting kharif crops, farmers remain anxious for a robust monsoon revival to mitigate potential crop losses.
This situation underscores the vulnerability of rain-dependent agriculture in Marathwada, as farmers continue to rely on favorable weather conditions for their livelihoods.
Marathwada received 24mm of rainfall so far in Sept, leaving the region with a 71% rainfall deficiency for the month, according to official data. Since June 1, the eight-district region has recorded 407mm of rainfall, which is still 32% below normal.
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 32°C on Tuesday. The return of dry weather has also pushed up temperatures. India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast largely cloudy skies and the possibility of light rain over Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and other parts of Marathwada in the coming days. During the visit, Gowda instructed all concerned agencies to remain alert and keep a close watch on the evolving crop situation in view of the uneven rainfall pattern.
Amid concerns over inadequate rainfall, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar collector Vinay Gowda GC on Tuesday inspected crop conditions in Khadkanarla village of Gangapur taluka and directed officials from the agriculture, revenue and rural development departments to closely monitor rainfall and crop health.