Call for Drought Declaration in Maharashtra's Latur District

In a pressing appeal to the Maharashtra government, local BJP MLA Ramesh Karad, along with other political leaders, has called for an official drought declaration in Latur district and surrounding areas of Marathwada. The request comes in light of alarming rainfall deficits that threaten both agricultural productivity and water availability for local communities. Karad submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, emphasizing the urgent need for relief measures for farmers grappling with the consequences of an extended dry spell.

The agricultural sector, particularly reliant on crops like soybean and sugarcane, is under severe strain due to the lack of rain. Karad highlighted that farmers have already invested significantly in seeds, fertilizers, and labor, only to face the grim prospect of losing their entire investment. The drought's impact extends beyond crop failures, posing a serious threat to the rural economy, where farmers depend on the kharif harvest to manage debts and household expenses.

In addition to crop losses, the situation has raised alarms regarding water and fodder availability. With rivers, lakes, and wells drying up, the declining groundwater levels threaten drinking water supplies for both residents and livestock. Karad urged the government to conduct assessments of crop damage and evaluate the current water and fodder situation, advocating for immediate drought relief for Latur and other affected regions in Marathwada.

Former Latur MLA Shivajirao Patil Kavhekar echoed these concerns, urging the Chief Minister to declare a drought and provide financial assistance to farmers. He pointed out that delayed rainfall has adversely affected various crops, including soybean and jowar, and warned that many farmers risk losing their entire investments. Kavhekar also highlighted the issue of pending crop insurance compensation, stressing that farmers in numerous revenue circles are still awaiting payouts from the previous kharif season.

The drinking water crisis in Latur city has also become increasingly dire, prompting Kavhekar to call for the swift completion of ongoing water supply projects. He recalled the initiation of a water project from Ujani dam to Manjara dam over two decades ago, which remains unfinished. Current efforts to establish a pipeline from Dhanegaon dam to Latur city must be prioritized to ensure a reliable water supply. Furthermore, he advocated for the installation of water meters to manage resources effectively and prevent wastage.