Jamshedpur: Despite weather conditions becoming increasingly favourable for the southwest monsoon to spread across Jharkhand, the state continues to grapple with a sharp rainfall deficit, raising concerns among farmers and authorities alike.
According to rainfall data from June 1 to June 21, Jharkhand has received just 38.4 mm of rain against the normal average of 101.5 mm, leaving the state with an overall rainfall deficit of 62 per cent.
The shortage has affected nearly every district. Ranchi has been the lone exception, recording 108.8 mm of rainfall against its normal 105.3 mm. Elsewhere, the situation remains critical. Garhwa has recorded the highest deficit at 99 per cent, followed by Sahibganj (98 per cent), Chatra (96 per cent), Palamu (88 per cent), Saraikela-Kharsawan (84 per cent) and Khunti (82 per cent).
In East Singhbhum, only 45 mm of rain has been recorded against the normal 141.3 mm, resulting in a 68 per cent shortfall, while neighbouring West Singhbhum has registered a 69 per cent deficit.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said several weather systems are currently supporting the advancement of the southwest monsoon over eastern India. An active seasonal trough extending from Punjab to Bihar through Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, along with two other trough systems over central and eastern India, is expected to draw more moisture into the region.
The Northern Limit of Monsoon now passes through Ranchi, indicating that monsoon activity is steadily strengthening across Jharkhand. The IMD has forecast favourable conditions for the monsoon to advance further into Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, Telangana and adjoining areas around June 23.
Farmers, meanwhile, are anxiously waiting for widespread rainfall to begin agricultural operations.
“We are eagerly waiting for good rains. The fields are dry and sowing has been delayed. A strong spell of monsoon rain is now essential for farmers,” said Ramesh Mahato, a resident of Potka in East Singhbhum.
Weather experts expect rainfall activity to intensify over the next few days, which could provide much-needed relief to farmers and help replenish declining water resources across the state.