Water levels in major reservoirs of the state have increased to 59 per cent of their total capacity after fresh spells of rain in several parts of Maharashtra. According to latest data released by the chief minister’s office (CMO), the state recorded 736 mm rainfall in the first week of August.
The total rainfall received so far this season is 107.5 per cent of average annual rainfall, which was 62 per cent in the corresponding period last year.
After prolonged drought over the past few years, medium to heavy downpour in many parts of the state including Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, Raigad and Kolhapur has managed to fill up major water bodies.
An official said, “Due to exceptionally good rains and the work done under ‘Jalyukt Shivar’ programme, there has been good storage of rain water this year. Thus, in many regions of the state, drinking water problems have come to an end.” He said that water problems of over 1,000 villages had been solved.
He added that there was enthusiasm among farmers owing to the good monsoon and sowing operations for Kharif crops were almost complete.
“There is also a substantial decrease in the number of villages in Marathwada where water has to be supplied through tankers,” he said.
According to CMO figures, 26 districts, including have received more than 100 per cent of the average annual rainfall this year.
