Karnataka is grappling with a significant monsoon shortfall, with major dams holding less than half their capacity due to a 34% deficit in rainfall. The delayed onset and weak progression of the Southwest Monsoon have left the state facing water scarcity challenges.
**Delayed Monsoon Onset and Rainfall Deficit**
The monsoon season, which typically begins in early June, arrived late this year, commencing on June 10 instead of the usual June 5. Since then, rainfall has been sporadic and insufficient. By June 25, Karnataka had received only 55 mm of rainfall, a stark contrast to the normal 152 mm for the same period, resulting in a 64% deficit. The dam located in Mandya district is holding just 9.93 thousand million cubic feet (TMC) of water as of June 24, compared to 28.35 TMC on the same date last year. Similarly, the Tungabhadra Dam in Vijayanagar district is storing only 4.18 TMC, down from 43.92 TMC last year.
**Regional Disparities in Rainfall**
While Bengaluru Urban district has experienced 20% more rainfall than average, other regions are facing severe deficits. Malnad districts, such as Shivamogga, Chikmagalur, and Kodagu, have recorded 78% less rainfall than normal, receiving only 188 mm against the expected 619 mm.
**Government Response and Future Outlook**
In response to the crisis, Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has urged the Energy Department to ensure adequate coal supplies for thermal power generation, anticipating reduced hydroelectric output. He also advised farmers to avoid cultivating water-intensive crops to conserve the limited water resources.
The India Meteorological Department forecasts that monsoon conditions may improve in the coming days, potentially alleviating the water scarcity. However, the situation remains precarious, and sustained efforts are required to manage the state's water resources effectively.