Insufficient rains create rain deficit in Punjab; Malwa's cotton growers hard hit
PTC Web Desk: As per the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), Punjab has witnessed a significant rainfall deficit, receiving only 117 mm against the long-period average (LPA) of 209.9 mm, this monsoon. This 44% shortfall is the highest in the country. Following Punjab, Jharkhand has a deficit of 41%, while the Haryana-Delhi-Chandigarh region faces a 40% shortfall.
As per a report published in Hindustan Times, Surender Paul, IMD-Chandigarh director, was quoted as saying," Overall, the northwest region has a 17% rain deficit, which is within the normal range. However, the monsoon was weak in Punjab and Haryana in July. The winds from the Bay of Bengal, which typically bring monsoon rainfall, were weak this season. Additionally, there have been no western disturbances (WDs) to boost rainfall during the monsoon."
Only three districts—Pathankot, Mansa, and Tarn Taran—have received normal rainfall so far this season. In contrast, districts such as Patiala, Fazilka, Muktsar, Faridkot, Jalandhar, Rupnagar, and Ludhiana are facing a 50% rain deficit.
The inadequate rainfall in July has severely impacted Punjab's farmers, particularly cotton growers in the southern Malwa region. Due to the dry weather, Mansa, Abohar, and Fazilka have reported a whitefly infestation, according to Punjab Agricultural University Vice-Chancellor SS Gossal.
The lack of rainfall has also led to increased power demand as farmers rely on groundwater for irrigation. The Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) is currently dealing with this surge in demand.
The IMD has forecasted an increase in rainfall activity over the next 48-72 hours. "We expect widespread moderate to heavy rainfall in Punjab during this period and have issued an orange alert for heavy rainfall on Wednesday and Thursday. Residents are advised to take appropriate precautions," Paul said.
- With inputs from agencies
