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The wide-spread rains this week have filled up water reservoirs and added moisture to the soil. Scientists reckon that in addition to such obvious benefits, these rains will help Rabi crops by lowering the temperature during sowing season (October – November). This is supposed to lead to more robust crops and better yields later.
According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), rains have been wide-spread in all parts of the country except eastern UP and Bihar. In fact, the post-monsoon rainfall has been 43% above the normal. Out of 36 Meteorological Sub-Division, as many as 29 have received normal or excess rainfall in October. Even in eastern UP and Bihar, rains are expected in the next few days. More rains are expected in the coming weeks in the peninsula.
The rains have led to increase in water storage in most of the reservoirs. Water in the 71 projects monitored by the Central Water Commission (CWC) has increased by 1.89 billion cubic metre since October 1, leading to 86.48 bcm water on October 8. Though the water storage in Bhakra and Pong dams continues to be much below the optimum level, it has increased by 3% in Bhakra and 2% in Pong in the last one week.
The Weather Watch Group meeting held today was informed that harvesting of Kharif crops is progressing well. Sporadic reports on damage of standing paddy crop have, however, been reported. The availability of fertilizers and seeds for Rabi season is reported to be satisfactory.
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