Maharashtra Nears 100% Drought Amid Huge Losses; State Moves to Revive Water Sources
The State Agriculture Department reports that at least 83 talukas in 20 districts have not had any rain for more than 20 days.
By Sakshi
New Delhi, September 22: This year’s rain deficit has pushed Maharashtra into a serious water crisis, as the government may declare a 100 per cent drought soon. Maharashtra Cooperation Minister Babasaheb Patil confirmed the news, saying he has never seen a situation like this. According to him, the losses due to the prolonged dry period are huge; however, the government is planning waivers for farmers, students and others in order to provide some relief.
Stressing the gravity of the situation, Patil said all crops, including sugarcane, cotton and soybeans, have been negatively impacted due to the lack of water for irrigation. He cited the National Disaster Response Fund norms, saying the drought declaration is expected by the end of September.
The statement assumes significance as it is the first time a minister has spoken of a 100 per cent drought declaration. So far, the official position of the government has been that crop damage surveys and ground verification would be conducted after October 5.
Meanwhile, Patil said the government has already begun taking measures, including waiving student fees, waiving electricity bills and deploying water tankers.
The State Agriculture Department reports that at least 83 talukas in 20 districts have not had any rain for more than 20 days, The Hindu newspaper reported. Rainfall deficits of 40 to 50 per cent have been reported in at least six districts, including Amravati, Solapur and Latur. In places such as Naichakur in Dharashiv district, water tankers have begun to operate.
District-Level Advice
The state government has instructed district administrations to revitalise existing water sources and construct water supply networks in villages experiencing a shortage.
The Groundwater Surveys and Development Agency will identify villages with drinking water shortages and send the list to District Collectorates by October, according to a circular released by the State Soil and Water Conservation Department on September 16.
For the months of October and December, district collectors will need to organise village interventions. The plans must be submitted by November 15, followed by plans for January to March 2027 by December 20, and April to June 2027 plans by January 20, the newspaper added.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated on Monday that the government will not wait for central support to assist farmers who are facing distress due to inadequate rainfall. "A formal crop loss assessment would be carried out after October 5 as required under the rules, following which the State would seek assistance from the Centre," he told reporters of The Hindu.
