SHIMLA: In a much-anticipated relief for the drought-stricken Himachal Pradesh, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts a wet spell from January 30th to February 2 , ending a four-month-long dry spell that has plagued the state.
But this drought has not bring about a ripple in the face of the state government that has yet to wake up the challenges triggered by the climate change.
The towns and hundreds of villages face water crisis as water sources have depleted over the months due to dry spell.
This is going to be worse in coming summer months as the snow cover is negligible, sending the glaciers receding at a faster rate than before.
This in turn will result in massive loss in power generation in the river basins due to the depleted discharge in water flows, warned experts.
The Sukhu government is yet to wake to the mitigate miseries brought in first by the natural disaster in July-August in 2023 then by the recent four monthlong driest spell in the history of Himachal Pradesh.
The prolonged drought, following heavy rains that marked one of the worst natural disasters in the state's history, has left Himachal Pradesh grappling with wildfires, depleted water sources, and devastated dry mountains and hills.
According to the IMD, the approaching weather system is set to bring precipitation in the form of rain and snow, offering a respite to districts such as Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, Chamba, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, and Sirmaur.
This long-awaited spell is expected to last for 2-3 days till February 2 , with one or two spells of heavy rain and snowfall in higher reaches.
The drought's impact has been severe. The vast tracts of forest areas, including Shimla, Mandi, and Kullu, engulfed in smog and wildfires that has destroyed thousands species of trees, saplings, herbs and flora including fauna.
Apple orchards, a lifeline for thousands of farmers, have suffered extensive damage, and water sources have faced depletion, raising concerns for the coming summer months.
Despite the positive weather forecast, the IMD advisory warns of potential disruptions, including low visibility, traffic disturbances due to heavy snowfall, and occasional thunderstorms.
Essential services such as water and electricity, communication, and related services may face interruptions.
Agro-met advisories accompany the forecast, emphasizing the need to protect livestock from low temperatures and make arrangements for artificial lighting and heating.
Beekeepers are urged to provide winter packing to colonies and artificial food to honey bees due to the scarcity of flowers.
As Himachal Pradesh eagerly awaits the end of its dry spell, the focus shifts to mitigating the aftermath of wildfires and rebuilding the affected areas.
The IMD's weather prediction brings a glimmer of hope to residents, farmers, and authorities battling the consequences of a challenging climate change.
