LUCKNOW: An alarming dry spell has gripped Uttar Pradesh, leaving agricultural communities deeply anxious as the state records 25 per cent less rainfall than normal this monsoon season. The prolonged shortage has triggered widespread concern over soil moisture levels, potential crop damage, and escalating irrigation expenses for farmers across the state's rain-fed belts.
According to recent data published by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Uttar Pradesh accumulated 258.6 mm of rainfall between June 1 and July 29, falling significantly short of the normal 342.8 mm benchmark.
East UP Bears the Brunt
The rainfall deficiency has hit East Uttar Pradesh hardest, registering a staggering 32 per cent deficit after receiving only 252.8 mm of precipitation against a normal of 370.4 mm. Several districts—including Bhadohi, Deoria, Jaunpur, Kanpur Dehat, Kaushambi, Kushinagar, Rae Bareli, Sant Kabir Nagar, and Sitapur—have witnessed precipitation shortages exceeding 50 per cent.
In contrast, West Uttar Pradesh has fared moderately better, recording 267 mm of rainfall against the expected 304.2 mm, marking a 12 per cent deficit. However, distribution remains highly erratic. Districts like Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, and Sambhal reported surplus showers, while Gautam Buddha Nagar, Pilibhit, Shamli, and Amroha continue to grapple with major shortages.
Impact on Agriculture
Agricultural experts warn that the timing of the dry spell couldn't be worse. July marks a critical window for paddy transplantation, alongside the sowing of major kharif crops such as maize, pulses, and oilseeds.
"Continued rainfall deficiency, particularly in eastern districts where a large part of cultivation depends heavily on monsoon rains, could severely stunt crop growth," said Ramendra Kushwaha, In-charge of the local Krishi Vigyan Kendra. He added that if the dry spell persists, farmers will be forced to rely heavily on expensive artificial irrigation, driving up operational costs.
Weather Department Predicts Relief in August
Offering a glimmer of hope, the weather department has forecasted a revival of active monsoon conditions during the first week of August.
Meteorologists explained that a deep depression formed over the northwest Bay of Bengal has moved inland across central Chhattisgarh and adjoining north interior Odisha, temporarily shifting heavy rainfall activity toward central India. Consequently, precipitation across most parts of Uttar Pradesh is expected to remain subdued for the remainder of July.
However, once this weather system weakens, the monsoon trough is projected to shift northward, triggering a fresh and much-needed spell of rainfall across the state in the opening days of August. Despite the current dry spell, strong surface winds associated with the system are keeping daytime temperatures under control.
