Mangaluru/Udupi: Coastal Karnataka, one of the wettest regions in the state, is witnessing an unusually weak monsoon this year, with both Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts recording a steep rainfall deficit. The prolonged shortfall has begun to impact agriculture, particularly paddy cultivation, as farmers struggle with inadequate rainfall during the crucial sowing and transplantation season.
Dakshina Kannada and Udupi record 39% rainfall deficit
According to official rainfall data from January 1 to July 19, Dakshina Kannada received only 1,174.9 mm of rainfall against the normal 1,929.8 mm, registering a 39% deficit. Udupi district also reported an identical 39% shortfall, receiving 1,348.2 mm compared to the normal 2,203.4 mm during the same period.
The figures reflect one of the weakest monsoon performances in recent years for the coastal belt, which typically experiences heavy rainfall during this phase of the southwest monsoon.
The rainfall shortage has become a matter of concern not only for farmers but also for agriculture and water resource officials, who are closely monitoring the situation as the monsoon season progresses.
June rainfall shortage hits paddy cultivation
The impact has been particularly severe because of the poor rainfall received in June, a critical month for agricultural operations in coastal Karnataka.
Paddy cultivation largely depends on timely and adequate rainfall during June for field preparation, sowing and transplantation. However, the delayed and below-normal rains have disrupted the agricultural calendar across many villages.
Dakshina Kannada recorded a 57% rainfall deficit during June, while Udupi reported a 50% shortfall. The inadequate rainfall has delayed transplantation work in several areas, forcing many farmers to postpone cultivation or wait for improved weather conditions.
Agriculture experts point out that prolonged dry spells during the early monsoon period can reduce crop productivity if sufficient rainfall does not arrive in time.
Taluk-wise rainfall deficit highlights severity
The rainfall deficit has been observed across almost every taluk in Dakshina Kannada, although the intensity varies from region to region.
Among all taluks, Puttur recorded the highest rainfall deficit at 48%, making it the worst-affected area in the district.
It was followed by Bantwal and Mangaluru, each registering a 45% deficit. Moodbidri recorded a 44% shortfall, while Beltangady reported 43% below-normal rainfall.
Other taluks also witnessed considerable deficits. Ullal recorded a 37% shortfall, Kadaba reported a 27% deficit, and Sullia registered the lowest deficit in the district at 26%, though it too remained below normal rainfall levels.
The widespread nature of the deficit indicates that the rainfall shortage is not confined to isolated pockets but has affected the district as a whole.
Farmers await stronger monsoon spell
For thousands of farmers dependent on rain-fed agriculture, the coming weeks will be crucial. Many are hoping for widespread and consistent rainfall to compensate for the earlier shortfall and support standing crops.
Agricultural activities such as transplantation, nursery maintenance and water management have already become challenging due to inadequate rainfall. If the dry spell continues, farmers may have to rely on alternative irrigation sources wherever available, increasing cultivation costs.
Officials are also keeping a close watch on reservoir levels, groundwater availability and rainfall trends to assess the possible impact on agriculture and drinking water supply if the deficit persists.
Sharp contrast with last year’s monsoon
The current monsoon season presents a stark contrast to the same period last year when both Dakshina Kannada and Udupi experienced abundant rainfall.
Last year’s favourable rainfall supported timely agricultural operations and ensured sufficient water availability across the region. This year, however, the significantly lower rainfall has altered the outlook for the farming community.
While the southwest monsoon season is still underway, the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the rainfall deficit narrows or continues to affect agriculture in coastal Karnataka. Farmers remain hopeful that the remaining monsoon period will bring the much-needed showers required to revive crop prospects and ease concerns over the ongoing rainfall shortage.