El Nino may trigger 39% rainfall deficit this season: Naidu
Reservoir storage, groundwater levels under pressure; CM directs officials to prioritise drinking water needs
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed concern about a potential 39% reduction in rainfall this season compared to normal levels, attributing the deficit primarily to the effects of El Niño. The Chief Minister stated that while the State typically receives 867 mm of rainfall between June and December, only 525 mm is expected this year.
Moreover, reservoir storage levels have been significantly impacted, with river basins currently holding only 563.05 TMC ft of water, down from 825.67 TMC ft last year. In response to these concerns, the Chief Minister directed officials to ensure adequate water storage for drinking purposes in several reservoirs and to allocate water for drinking needs in various districts through the Nagarjuna Sagar canals.
Regarding the agriculture sector, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of efficiently utilizing floodwaters to protect crops and directing efforts to ensure industries receive sufficient water supply despite reduced availability.
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