Heavy Rains in Maharashtra: Satara Farmers Call for Urgent 'Wet Drought' Status

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning that the intensity of rainfall across Maharashtra is expected to increase from today. Several districts, especially in the Konkan region, are likely to witness heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next two to three days.

Mumbai and surrounding areas have already been experiencing consistent downpours for the past two days. The IMD has indicated that this weather pattern will persist, particularly affecting regions in Konkan, Western Maharashtra, and parts of Vidarbha.

In Satara district, the talukas of Patan and Mahabaleshwar have been experiencing relentless rainfall for the past one and a half months, severely impacting agricultural activity. According to local reports, the region has recorded 5,153 millimeters of rainfall during this period—an unusually high amount for this time of year.

Farmers Demand 'Wet Drought' Declaration

Farmers in these heavily affected areas are now demanding that the government declare a 'wet drought' (a condition where excessive rainfall damages crops and hinders farming operations). Due to the continuous rainfall:

• Pre-monsoon preparations have been delayed.

• Sowing of seasonal crops has not yet begun in many parts.

• Farmlands are waterlogged, making it impossible to till the soil or plant seeds.

The prolonged rains have led to crop loss, financial stress, and growing frustration among farmers. Local farmer organizations have started mobilizing and are urging the state government to assess the damage and provide immediate relief.

Officials from the Agriculture Department are expected to visit the region for a field survey in the coming days.

As the monsoon continues to batter parts of the state, the government is under pressure to balance relief efforts for drought-prone and rain-hit areas simultaneously. Citizens are advised to remain cautious and follow weather advisories issued by local authorities.