102 taluks to be declared drought-hit after discussion in next Cabinet meeting
Parameshwara says the current rainfall deficiency in Karnataka is among the four worst recorded since 1976
Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara revealed that 102 out of Karnataka's 240 taluks will likely be declared drought-hit during the upcoming State Cabinet meeting. This announcement comes after the State conducted a ground-truthing exercise for these eligible taluks. The Deputy Chief Minister emphasized that the current rainfall deficiency in the State, among the four worst recorded since 1976, is a significant concern.
The deficit stands at 31% overall, with North Interior Karnataka experiencing the highest at 41%, followed by South Interior Karnataka at 35%, the Malnad region at 35%, and coastal Karnataka at 24%. Though recent rainfalls have replenished some reservoirs, the total storage remains low at 679.6 tmcft, compared to 790 tmcft during the same period last year.
The Deputy Chief Minister assured that there is no shortage of funds for drought relief, with ₹306 crore released so far for drinking water supply. However, he highlighted that only 71% of the targeted agricultural area has been sown so far, and only 60 lakh hectares have been cultivated against the target of 84.10 lakh hectares.
Additionally, 132 taluks are grappling with severe groundwater stress, and the government aims to implement supportive measures in this regard.
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