17 of 21 mandals in Telangana’s Khammam district drought-hit, 12 mandals face fodder shortage

As many as 17 of 21 mandals in Khammam district recorded rainfall about 20% below normal, with 10 mandals facing severe drought and seven moderate drought conditions, according to preliminary assessments, District Collector Divakara T.S. said on Friday.

Speaking to the media, he said a detailed report had been submitted to the government.

Groundwater levels in the district had declined from 2.5 metres below ground level during last year’s rainy season to 3.56 metres at present.

In Kamepalli, Yerrupalem, Sattupalli and Enkur mandals, groundwater levels had fallen by 5 to 10 metres due to deficient rainfall amid El Nino conditions.

Despite a marginal improvement following recent cyclone-induced rains, further depletion was expected in the coming weeks, he said.

The Collector urged farmers to avoid paddy cultivation during the ensuing Yasangi (rabi) season and opt for millets, pulses and other less water-intensive crops, as available water would be prioritised for drinking needs. Proposals had been submitted to secure water allocation from the Nagarjunasagar Project to meet the district’s drinking water needs in the coming months.

Twelve mandals were also facing fodder shortages. The administration was preparing to distribute fodder seeds, as the fodder shortage was expected to deepen over the next five months.