Maharashtra Implements Urgent Measures Amid Drought Crisis
State officials are mobilizing resources to address severe drought conditions affecting 305 talukas by reviving water schemes and establishing fodder banks.
Maharashtra is prioritizing local water sources to combat the drought.
A 'One-Time Settlement' scheme will help restore public water supply systems.
Fodder banks are being established to prevent shortages in livestock feed.
Maharashtra is taking decisive action to address the severe drought impacting 305 talukas across the state. Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule has instructed officials to prioritize the revival of stalled water schemes and local water sources, emphasizing that the deployment of private water tankers should be a last resort. The state is focusing on utilizing existing regional resources before considering external assistance.
In a high-level meeting held in Mumbai, Bawankule outlined a comprehensive plan to tackle the water crisis. He announced a 'One-Time Settlement' scheme aimed at waiving penalties and interest on unpaid electricity dues, which have hindered public water supply systems. With over Rs 3,000 crores in dues affecting various projects, this initiative is expected to facilitate the restoration of water connections by allowing municipalities to pay off principal amounts in installments.
To further combat the drought's impact, the minister directed the establishment of 'Fodder Banks' in collaboration with the Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Departments. This initiative aims to ensure a steady supply of fodder for livestock, particularly in areas experiencing shortages. A new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has been introduced to convert forest lands and grasslands into fodder cultivation areas, with a fund of Rs 62 crore allocated for providing fodder seeds to farmers with reliable water sources.
Currently, the third phase of drought relief operations is underway, with damage assessments for agricultural losses nearing completion. Officials report that 70 percent of the assessments have been finalized, with a comprehensive overview of the drought situation expected by the end of October. The government is also exploring innovative solutions, such as creating water bodies during road construction projects and allocating fallow land for fodder cultivation by women's self-help groups.
Looking ahead, the state is committed to implementing these measures swiftly to mitigate the effects of the drought. The focus remains on enhancing local water management and ensuring food security for livestock, with further updates anticipated as the situation evolves.
