Vidarbha and Marathwada are two meteorological sub-divisions which are infamous for erratic Monsoon rains. However, Monsoon this year started off on a good note for both the regions. Vidarbha by the end of June was enjoying a surplus of 52% while Marathwada was deficient by 17%, which is considered normal (+/- 19% normal) in meteorological terms.
But July turned out to be the least productive month in terms of rain for both the regions. Vidarbha, which was surplus by 52% in June saw a steep decline in rainfall amounts and therefore became deficient by 18%. And in Marathwada the deficiency increased to 56% from 17% in June.
August was however better with occasional good rains. For instance, from August 27 to August 31 Vidarbha and Marathwada witnessed a good spell of rain which helped the deficiency in Vidarbha come down to 13% by the end of August. Marathwada also saw the deficiency slide to 50% from 56% in July.
So far September has turned out to be a very good month for both the regions in terms of rainfall. Between September 14 and 17, fairly widespread rainfall and thundershower was observed. Some extremely heavy spells were also witnessed during this period.
As on September 21 Vidarbha was observing normal rains at -8%, while the deficiency in Marathwada dropped to 35%.
Good rains in the months of August and September have helped fill up the reservoirs almost to their capacity in Vidarbha. According to English Daily Times of India, Vidarbha region had over 70% of water storage in its 823 dams spread over 11 districts of Nagpur and Amravati revenue divisions. Marathwada had only 9 of its dams filled.
The Kharif crops in Vidarbha are expected to give decent returns this time due to good start to Monsoon season in June. The following months of August and September have also performed well as they have given regular rains to the region. And with the reservoirs showing good improvement in water levels, the farmers will certainly breathe a sigh of relief.
Image Credit: vidarbhatoday.com
