Kashmir bears brunt of less precipitation

Srinagar, July 25: With Kashmir bearing the brunt of an ongoing heatwave, the Valley has received 92.96 percent below-normal rains since July 19.

As per the data by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), “During the week (July 19 to July 25) Jammu region received 31.12 percent below

normal rainfall and the Kashmir region received 92.96 percent below normal rainfall.”

River Jhelum, which is the main source of water in Kashmir, is flowing at one of its lowest levels with dry patches visible at various places in Srinagar.

This has resulted in an acute shortage of drinking water in various areas of Srinagar and other districts. Scanty rains have also affected various water supply and hydropower schemes and units.

There has been a massive decline in precipitation in J&K this year and most of the water bodies are having low levels.

Some reports said that J&K has recorded deficient rainfall of 27 percent this year till July 25.

Even the peak winter period known as Chillai Kalan was dry this year, putting more burden on glacial and water resources.