Meghalaya faces water crisis after 85 per cent rainfall deficit in October
A significant drop in rainfall has raised concerns regarding water security and the sustainability of natural springs across the state.
Meghalaya is experiencing a deepening water crisis following an 85 per cent rainfall deficit in October, according to The Shillong Times. The state recorded only 38.3 mm of rain during the month, compared to the normal level of 255 mm.
The shortage follows a weak southwest monsoon where the state received 1,077.1 mm of rain between June and September against the seasonal normal of 2,695.3 mm. This represents a 60 per cent deficit, which grew from a 9 per cent gap in July to 38 per cent in August.
All 11 districts reported large deficits in October. South West Garo Hills saw the highest shortfall at 93 per cent, while East Jaintia Hills and North Garo Hills both recorded 92 per cent. East Khasi Hills followed at 91 per cent.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said many Jal Jeevan Mission projects are facing water-supply issues due to declining sources, changing rainfall patterns, and climatic conditions. The state relies heavily on spring-fed sources which weaken during dry periods.
The India Meteorological Department classifies deficits between 60 and 99 per cent as large deficient. The Public Health Engineering Department has mapped approximately 55,000 springs and identified 785 critical sources for rejuvenation to address these vulnerabilities.