Maharashtra Declares Drought in 265 Talukas Amid Water Crisis
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasizes drinking water conservation as Maharashtra faces severe drought conditions.
265 talukas officially declared drought-affected
State government initiates 12-point relief package
Water conservation prioritized for human and livestock needs
On October 11, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a drought relief plan, declaring a state of drought in 265 out of 358 talukas. This declaration comes amid one of the most challenging farming crises in recent years, with the government urging strict water discipline as the state grapples with severe drought conditions.
The Chief Minister highlighted the drastic change in weather patterns this year, which initially sparked hopes for a bountiful harvest following heavy monsoon rains. However, the situation deteriorated when rainfall ceased for two months during critical crop growth periods, leading to significant losses in key crops such as cotton, soybean, tur, maize, and sugarcane. Fadnavis expressed deep concern over the distress faced by farmers, stating, "This year has brought profound distress to us all. We must stand side-by-side and fight this battle against drought together."
The drought has affected approximately 74% of Maharashtra, with 147 lakh hectares of Kharif crops suffering from crop failure due to dried-up wells, drains, and rivers. Fadnavis assured that the government would extend relief efforts beyond the officially declared drought areas, emphasizing that any village or farmer experiencing crop loss would receive assistance, regardless of formal criteria.
As the state prepares for the summer months, Fadnavis urged villagers to prioritize water conservation for drinking and livestock over agricultural needs. He stated, "We must maintain drinking water supplies until August, which will require large-scale tanker operations." The Chief Minister's call to action aims to ensure that water resources are reserved primarily for human and animal consumption during the upcoming dry months.
In response to the ongoing crisis, the state government has activated a 12-point relief package that includes measures such as waivers on student fees, discounts on power bills, and adjustments to the Employment Guarantee Scheme. Additionally, mandatory drinking water rationing will be implemented across municipalities and panchayats to manage the limited water supply effectively.
