UP stares at drought as rains elude

Uttar Pradesh stares at drought following deficient rainfall in large parts of the state.

According to the state agriculture department officials, more than 50 districts in the state have received low rainfall so far this monsoon season.

The officials said that around 30 districts, including Chandauli, Varanasi, Pilibhit, Mau, Mainpuri, Kasganj, have received 40% less rainfall this season.

Around 25 districts have received 60% less rainfall, they added.

''Sowing has been deferred in almost all the rain deficient districts... Less rain may adversely affect the production of kharif crops in the state,'' a senior official in Lucknow told DH.

The official said that the agriculture department would wait till July 31 and after that, it would make an assessment of the situation and send its report to the state government.

Large parts of the arid Bundelkhand region have also been witnessing deficient rain this season, triggering concerns.

Uttar Pradesh had also experienced deficient rainfall last year.

The state government is keeping a close eye on the situation and would initiate measures to provide succour to the farmers, sources said. ''We have sought a report from the concerned department on the rainfall,'' said an official here.

The officials are, however, hopeful about the monsoon's revival in the state.

Incidentally, some districts in the central parts of the state stared at the spectre of floods following the rise in the water levels of small rivers.

Floods have affected people in Balrampur, Gonda and Baharaich districts, sources said.