SHILLONG, Oct 7: Meghalaya has recorded a monsoon rainfall deficit of more than 60 per cent, prompting the state government to intensify measures to secure water sources and adapt to changing weather patterns.
India Meteorological Department data showed that the rainfall shortage has also affected some of the state’s traditionally wettest areas. Mawsynram and Sohra in East Khasi Hills recorded deficits of around 35 per cent during the monsoon.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, who heads the state climate council, said the deficit had reached 50 per cent at certain stages but early rainfall in March and April helped reduce its impact.
“We have had a rainfall deficit of up to 50 per cent. However, early rains in March and April helped the state cope with the deficit rainfall later in the year,” Sangma said.
The government has formulated a Water Policy and mapped around 17,000 springs using satellite imagery to identify potential water sources, particularly in areas facing severe shortages. Sangma said steps had been taken to revive several such springs.
The state is also implementing a Rs 300-crore World Bank-funded project covering the catchment areas of the Umngi and Ganol rivers, which supply drinking water to Shillong and Tura.
Sangma said the government was working with local communities and traditional heads to protect water sources, restore springs and expand plantation activities. Nearly half of Meghalaya’s MGNREGS allocation is being utilised for creating and protecting water sources, including small water-harvesting structures and check dams.
The rainfall shortage comes amid concerns over evolving El Niño conditions in the equatorial Pacific. A recent study has warned that the current “super El Nino” could strengthen into a very strong event and continue until February 2027. It projected around 15,800 additional heat-related deaths in India over the next six months compared with a normal year.
The prolonged weather disruption could also affect foodgrain production, particularly the upcoming Rabi season in rainfed areas.
Sangma said Meghalaya had begun adjusting its water management and development programmes to address climate-related challenges.
“Things are beginning to change and improve. Sometimes the measures we take may not be able to provide complete protection. But we have a clear understanding of the situation and have taken steps to deal with El Niño and climate change,” he said.
