Cold, dry weather worsens water woes in Chamba

Chamba district is grappling with a prolonged dry spell of over three months, coupled with bone-chilling cold, creating challenging conditions for the local populace. The lack of rain has left forests, ields, and water bodies parched, as the region waits desperately for relief.

In the higher and mid-altitude areas, temperatures are plummeting below sub-zero during the nights, resulting in freezing of water sources. The situation has caused a drinking water crisis in certain parts of the district as the frozen conditions are impeding water supply.

Farmers worst-affected

In the higher and mid-altitude areas, temperatures are plummeting below sub-zero during the nights, resulting in freezing of water sources. The situation has caused a drinking water crisis in certain parts of the district as the frozen conditions impede water supply.

Farmers are among the worst affected, unable to sow wheat, barley, mustard, and other rabi crops due to the complete absence of soil moisture.

The dry weather and biting cold has also contributed to a surge in health issues. Dr Pankaj Gupta, Officiating Principal of Chamba Medical College, highlighted that cold-related ailments such as colds, fevers, sore throat and viral infections may increase in such weather conditions. Dr Gupta advised residents to take precautions, including wearing warm clothing and drinking boiled water, to maintain health during the harsh winter.

Farmers are among the worst affected, unable to sow wheat, barley, mustard, and other rabi crops due to the complete absence of soil moisture. This has raised serious concerns about the future of agriculture and horticulture in the region.

The prolonged dry spell has delayed the sowing of rabi crops. According to the Agriculture Department, wheat is cultivated on approximately 19,000 hectares in Chamba, yielding 35,000 to 37,000 tons annually. However, the dry spell has delayed sowing, threatening this year’s crop. The department has provided over 1,800 quintals of wheat seeds to farmers, but sowing has not yet started.

Hoping for rain, Agriculture Officer Kuldeep Dhiman said, "Timely rain within the next week could still salvage the situation, allowing farmers to sow crops and achieve a reasonable harvest. However, any further delay could make the situation more critical".

Meanwhile, prolonged dryness also poses a threat to apple production, a key horticultural activity in the region. Pramod Shah, Deputy Director of Horticulture, said, "Apple plants require 1,200–1,600 chilling hours, while newer varieties need 800–1,000 hours. If the dry conditions persist, apple and other fruit crops may suffer significant damage".

With the district’s agriculture and horticulture sectors in a disarray, timely rainfall remains the only hope for Chamba’s residents. Local officials are urging farmers to prepare for sudden rains while cautioning about worsening conditions if relief does not arrive soon.

The Weather Department has forecast rain and snow in the higher reaches of the state on Saturday. However, the weather from Sunday onwards is likely to remain dry for a week.