Nalbari Faces 76% Rainfall Deficit, Drought-like Conditions Hit 448 Villages

Nalbari: Nalbari district is reeling under severe drought-like conditions due to a massive 76% rainfall deficit this year, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).

From June 1 to July 18, the district received only 193.6 mm of rainfall, far below the normal average of 801.6 mm for this period.The lack of rain has caused widespread damage to agriculture and fisheries. With water levels in ponds dropping rapidly, fish farmers are struggling to sustain their operations. Sali paddy fields across the district have dried up, with many farmers reporting complete crop loss.

Since May, rainfall in the district has been unusually low. Data from the Mukalmua weather centre shows that the area received only 388.7 mm of rainfall in May, with no rain recorded for 14 days. In June, rainfall stood at 575.95 mm, but there were still 17 dry days. July has brought even less relief, with only five rainy days recorded till July 21.

As a result, the drought-like situation has affected 448 villages across the district. Of the 26,113 hectares of land where paddy was cultivated, nearly 11,989 hectares of crops have already been destroyed, official sources confirmed.

Farmers have expressed deep concern over the continued dry spell, fearing more damage if the rains do not arrive soon. The district administration is reportedly assessing the situation to provide necessary assistance.