Water levels in 110 out of the 146 reservoirs that are monitored by the Central Water Commission (CWC) are 40% or below their capacities, according to latest CWC data, raising concerns about irrigation activities during the rabi season and the availability of drinking water until May 2024.
The reason for the current high prices can be traced back to their sudden fall in April-May, which led many growers to abandon their crops. The unusual heat of March and April also saw pest attacks that took a toll on production.