Meghalaya faces severe water crisis following 85% rainfall deficit

Meghalaya is experiencing a significant water security crisis after recording an 85% rainfall deficit in October. According to the India Meteorological Department, the state received only 38.3 mm of rain against the monthly normal of 255 mm.

The shortage follows an exceptionally deficient southwest monsoon period between June and September, which saw a 60% rainfall deficit. The deficit has intensified steadily, rising from 9% in July to 38% in August, before the sharp drop in October.

All 11 districts in the state reported large rainfall deficits, with the highest shortfalls occurring in South West Garo Hills at 93%, and East Jaintia Hills and North Garo Hills at 92%. The prolonged shortage has raised alarms regarding drinking water availability, particularly for rural communities that rely on natural springs. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has previously noted that changing rainfall patterns and climatic conditions have contributed to water-supply challenges in various projects.