Himachal Struggles with Severe Rainfall Deficit, Farmers Face Uncertain Future
Himachal Pradesh is grappling with drought-like conditions as the state has recorded a 75% deficit in rainfall from January 1 to February 11. Official data reveals that against the expected 117.9 mm of rainfall, the state received a mere 29.4 mm, raising serious concerns for agriculture, particularly for apple growers and winter crops.
Districts Worst Affected by Rainfall Shortage
Bilaspur has recorded the highest rainfall deficit at 91%, followed by Hamirpur (88%), Una (88%), Kangra (86%), Sirmour (85%), and Solan (85%). Other affected districts include Kinnaur (89%), Shimla (78%), Chamba (71%), Mandi (69%), Lahaul-Spiti (69%), and Kullu (60%). The lack of precipitation has left large areas struggling with dry soil and declining water levels, affecting both farming and groundwater recharge.
Impact on Apple Orchards and Winter Crops
Experts stress that adequate winter snowfall is essential for apple orchards, as it provides the required chilling hours necessary for quality fruit production. The current deficit in snowfall threatens to impact flowering and yield, especially in key apple-growing regions like Shimla, Kinnaur, and Kullu. Farmers fear that if the situation doesn’t improve soon, the upcoming apple season could suffer.
Wheat and vegetable farmers are also feeling the pressure, as insufficient soil moisture may hinder crop growth, potentially reducing output and increasing dependence on irrigation. The situation has shifted attention to whether the remaining winter months will bring much-needed rain and snowfall.
A Growing Climate Challenge
This extreme rainfall shortage highlights the growing impact of climate change on Himachal Pradesh’s agriculture. Experts are calling for stronger water conservation strategies and the adoption of climate-resilient farming techniques to help mitigate future risks. Farmers and policymakers alike now wait anxiously, hoping for a shift in weather patterns to ease the crisis.
