Weak monsoon shatters hope in Karnataka district

Madikeri, Karnataka, Jul 12 (UNI) Weak monsoon season shattered the hopes of agriculturists and planters in Kodagu this year, who had hoped to reap better crop.

The pattern of rainfall changed completely, much against the prediction of experts. It rained well during February and March and many planters could avoid sprinkling for coffee blossom. People living in towns had a sigh of relief, as there was no dearth of drinking water, except on few occasions.

Presently, monsoon that used to be very harsh with flood situations in Kodagu during the month of July had totally failed and there was fifty per cent less average rainfall there, compared to last year.

Madikeri had registered 81-72 inches rainfall last year till July 11. It has received just 35.89 inches this year.

Virajpet had recorded 69.01 inches last year and it was 32.78 inches this year. Somwarpet had received 46.49 inches last year and it was 23.88 inches this season.

Kodagu had incurred a heavy loss during this season last year due to flood, landslide and house collapse. It had experienced drought during 1983 and rainfall used to be normal, after that.

UNI XR KVV GL DS1145