6-month rainfall deficit raises water crisis fears in J&K

Srinagar, May 09: Jammu and Kashmir has recorded below-normal precipitation for six consecutive months, raising concerns over a looming water crisis, declining river levels and reduced hydroelectric power generation in the Union Territory, according to weather data shared by Kashmir Weather.

The latest figures for April, accessed by the news agency show that J&K received 86.5 mm rainfall against the normal 99.6 mm, marking a 13 per cent deficit.

The continued shortfall follows seven consecutive winters of below-normal precipitation, intensifying fears over water availability in the coming months.

Experts and weather observers warned that the prolonged dry spell could severely affect drinking water supplies in far-flung areas, especially if the region witnesses another extended dry period during summer.

They said streams, rivers and springs across several districts were already flowing below normal levels, which may impact irrigation and hydroelectric power generation dependent on water discharge.

The rainfall distribution across districts remained uneven, with several Kashmir districts witnessing sharp deficits during April.

Shopian recorded the highest shortfall at 67 per cent, receiving 33.9 mm rainfall against the normal 102.1 mm. Kathua saw a 60 per cent deficit, while Anantnag recorded 46 per cent below-normal rainfall.

Kulgam registered a 39 per cent shortfall, Pulwama 38 per cent, Budgam 34 per cent and Srinagar 32 per cent below normal precipitation during the month.

Kishtwar reported a 26 per cent deficit, followed by Ganderbal at 23 per cent, while Bandipora and Baramulla each recorded a 13 per cent shortfall.

Officials and weather observers said the falling precipitation levels may lead to a further decline in water levels in the Jhelum river and other streams during the peak summer season.

Some districts in the Jammu region, however, recorded surplus rainfall in April. Samba witnessed the highest increase with a 96 per cent surplus, followed by Rajouri at 46 per cent and Reasi at 40 per cent.

Jammu and Udhampur each recorded 15 per cent excess rainfall, while Poonch received 14 per cent above-normal precipitation. Kupwara, Ramban and Doda also recorded marginal surpluses—(KNO).