Gujarat has already received 68% of the season’s average rainfall and, according to government officials, some more rain can be expected in the next 15 days. The interesting thing, however, is that the state has received less rain in 2009 than it did at this time of the year in 2008. Yet, unlike last year, there is no threat of drought or drinking water shortage anywhere in the state this year.
Explaining this apparent anomaly, government officials said that, thanks to the rain during the second spell, precipitation had been adequate in all areas of the state this year. “As a result, all dams, lakes and reservoirs have enough water to last us till at least March-April next year,” an official said.
State water resources minister Nitin Patel seems to hold the same view. “The second spell of rain has saved this year’s crops and it has also ensured that there will be no shortage of drinking water till next year,” he said “Catchments areas of rivers in other states will also increase the quantity of water available to Gujarat.”
