Amid Maharashtra drought, Fadnavis outlines plan to save drinking water till July 2027

With drought conditions already causing concern in 265 talukas of the state, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has said an El Nino shadow looms over next year's monsoon rains as well. Fadnavis was speaking to reporters at a press conference in Nagpur on Sunday.

According to Fadnavis, El Nino meant most parts of the state did not receive adequate rainfall this year, leading to a water shortage that is already being felt. El Nino's effect is expected to intensify further in the coming period, and if that happens, it could also hurt next year's rainfall.

Given the seriousness of the situation, the state government has begun taking steps to secure drinking water supply until July 2027. Every district has been asked to prepare a plan by working out its existing water stock against requirements until July 2027. Chief Minister Fadnavis said some of the state's major dams have adequate water stock. Water in such dams could be reserved for drinking purposes until July 2027, with the surplus decided to be used for industries and rabi crops.

Speaking further on El Nino, Fadnavis said the current El Nino has not yet reached its peak. According to experts, it will peak in February, after which it will begin to weaken. He said El Nino forms due to rising heat in the Pacific Ocean, and as it cools, weather patterns will change, reducing El Nino's effect. However, he said all kinds of preparation are needed, because if El Nino's effect increases further, the resulting difficulties will also have to be dealt with.

Fadnavis also appealed to people to show social responsibility given the drought situation. He said unnecessary spending should be cut and money spent only on essential items, and that everyone should think about how savings can help during the drought.

The state government had on Saturday declared Trigger 1 drought in 265 talukas of Maharashtra, meaning drought has now been declared across about 75 percent of the state. Following the declaration, various measures to deal with the drought will now be announced and implemented.