Karnataka drought deepens as 122 taluks face prolonged rainfall shortage, raising concerns over widespread crop losses and declining sowing
Karnataka is facing worsening drought conditions as 122 taluks experience three consecutive weeks without rain, with officials estimating up to 50% crop losses.
Bengaluru: Karnataka is facing worsening drought conditions as the weak monsoon continues to show no signs of recovery. Out of the state’s 239 taluks, 102 have already been declared drought-affected, while 26 more are likely to be added to the list within a week.
Officials have estimated that Karnataka could face around 50 percent losses in agricultural and horticultural crop yields this season due to the prolonged rainfall deficit. Preliminary estimates indicate that 122 of 228 taluks facing drought-like conditions have experienced inadequate rainfall for three consecutive weeks.
The situation has also affected sowing across the state. During the previous agricultural season, cultivation was carried out across 82.5 lakh hectares. This year, only 36.5 lakh hectares have been sown so far.
Karnataka Drought Drives Temperature Rise In Bengaluru
The weak monsoon has also contributed to higher temperatures across Karnataka. Bengaluru has recorded a maximum temperature of 31.7 degrees Celsius for the past week. In September, temperatures have crossed 30 degrees Celsius after three years.
According to meteorologist C.S. Patil, reduced rainfall and fewer clouds are the main reasons for the increase in temperature. He also said the El Nino effect is contributing to higher atmospheric temperatures.
The maximum temperature in Bengaluru reached 32.6 degrees Celsius in September 2023. Patil said the temperature could rise to around 33 degrees Celsius in the coming days.
Rainfall Deficit Brings Sunshine During Monsoon
September normally brings rainfall, cloudy skies and cooler weather to Bengaluru. However, the lack of rain and clouds has increased direct exposure to sunlight, resulting in warmer conditions during the monsoon season.
The Indian Meteorological Department has also forecast a maximum temperature of 32 degrees Celsius for Bengaluru.
Partly cloudy and sunny conditions are likely to continue in the city, with similar weather expected until September 16.
Southern Interior Karnataka Faces Rising Temperatures
Temperatures are also increasing in several parts of Karnataka, including the southern interior districts, Kalaburagi, Udupi and Mangaluru.
Normally, sunshine is limited during the monsoon season. However, residents are now experiencing both rain and sunshine as weather patterns change across the state.
Karnataka Sowing Rate Declines Amid Rain Shortage
Mysuru, Mandya, Chamarajanagar, Hassan, Kolar and Chikkaballapur are among the districts severely affected by the lack of rainfall. Haveri, Bidar and Raichur in northern Karnataka have also recorded a significant decline in sowing.
According to Revenue Department officials, 122 taluks have continued to experience inadequate rainfall for three consecutive weeks, making crop cultivation increasingly difficult. So far, only 36.5 lakh hectares have been sown across Karnataka.
Officials said the southern interior region has been among the worst affected by the rainfall shortage. While some crops could potentially be protected in irrigated areas, rain-fed crops are unlikely to produce significant yields this season.
Officials have estimated that the state could face around 50 percent crop losses. In comparison, 82.5 lakh hectares were cultivated during the previous agricultural season, while only 36.5 lakh hectares have been sown so far this year.
