Weak monsoon leaves Jamshedpur’s Swarnarekha and Kharkai Rivers dry, farmers worried

Mail News Service

Jamsedpur, July 18: The weak monsoon in East Singhbhum, including Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, has raised serious concerns among farmers and urban residents alike. With 243.4 mm less rainfall than required, the Swarnarekha and Kharkai rivers have nearly dried up, turning into polluted drains. As of Wednesday, the water level at Chandil Dam was recorded at 178.48 meters, below the required 179 meters.

Farmers are worried about the insufficient rainfall, which is critical for their crops. The district has received only 153.8 mm of rain, compared to the expected 397.2 mm. Urban residents are also suffering from the heat, as dry borings from the summer have not been replenished by rain. If the monsoon does not pick up pace in the next few days, the situation could worsen.

The Indian Meteorological Department reports that Jharkhand has received only 188.1 mm of rain, 171.7 mm less than the required 359.8 mm. Kolhan division, comprising East Singhbhum, West Singhbhum, and Seraikela-Kharsawan, has experienced significant rainfall deficits. West Singhbhum received only 126.3 mm instead of 348.2 mm, and Seraikela-Kharsawan received 148.2 mm instead of 359.6 mm.

Despite light to moderate rainfall in the state over the last 24 hours, monsoon activity remains weak. The highest rainfall of 29.6 mm was recorded in Dhalbhumgarh, East Singhbhum. The Meteorological Department predicts rain over the next six days, with heavy rainfall expected on 20th and 21st July, which may bring some relief to the region.