Karnataka’s rainfall pattern has become increasingly unpredictable. While the monsoon kicked off strongly in May with abundant rain that replenished reservoirs, June and July brought erratic showers, sparking concerns among experts and officials.
Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, during a recent review of e-office implementation in the revenue department, advised deputy commissioners to maintain strict oversight on rainfall data and align water release from reservoirs with actual inflow.
The state has registered a 5% overall rainfall deficit — 473mm against the usual 498mm. Southern interior regions, especially Bengaluru South (-38%), Tumakuru (-30%), Chitradurga (-33%), and Bengaluru Rural (-29%), experienced the steepest declines. Malnad and northern interior Karnataka witnessed shortfalls of 6% and 9% respectively, while coastal areas saw a 4% surplus.
“Although rainfall appears normal in most districts, around six to seven regions are significantly behind,” Byre Gowda noted. “Reservoir inflows have been decent, but August and September may not be favourable, so water reserves must be managed wisely.”
Forecasts indicate potential rainfall reversal — coastal and Malnad belts might see up to an 80% deficit, while southern interiors could enjoy a 5% excess. North interior Karnataka may maintain near-normal levels.
Dr. MN Thimme Gowda of UAS, GKVK, emphasized that though the pattern isn’t alarming yet, rainfall distribution is highly uneven. “We must stay alert through October.”
Early rains had encouraged a sowing target of 82.5 lakh hectares, up from 67.1 lakh last year. But with only 67.7 lakh hectares covered (82%), dry conditions have slowed progress.
Dr. GS Srinivas Reddy warned that water availability could dwindle, even for drinking needs, if the current trend continues.