Farmers urged not to go for second (Rabi) crop due to lack of water, power

HYDERABAD

Due to the increasing impact of El Nino phenomenon and scarcity of water in reservoirs, State Government Adviser P. Sudarshan Reddy has suggested that the farming community should not venture into the second (Rabi) crop as drought-like conditions are already prevailing in Telangana.

In a statement, the ruling party MLA from Bodhan said on Sunday that the state is facing shortage of drinking water and electricity is also in short supply and it is the responsibility of officials of the agriculture, horticulture, irrigation, electricity and revenue department to ensure that farmers do not undertake second crop.

Finding that water levels in large reservoirs, lakes, and reservoirs have not reached full capacity due to poor inflows, levels have continued to decline, and the declining groundwater table further complicates the issue. He suggested that urgent measures be taken to deal with the situation.

In Nizamabad district, especially in Singur and Nizamsagar project areas, available water is reserved for drinking purposes. He urged farmers and the public to use electricity carefully and conserve water. He directed the officials to take appropriate measures to ensure regular supply of drinking water and prevent wastage.

The Singur project is expected to have water available for drinking purposes by December 2026. Mr. Sudarshan Reddy asked the officials to prepare plans for efficient management of water resources beyond this period. He expressed concern that severe El Nino conditions could worsen the situation if farmers continue with another crop without adequate water availability.

He suggested officials to form special committees from the village level to create awareness among farmers and public about water and electricity conservation. He urged farmers to cooperate with the government and relevant ministries to overcome the crisis.

Published – 11 Oct 2026 21:19 IST