Meghalaya: CM raises alarm over 80% rainfall deficit, calls for El Niño preparedness
Guwahati: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has raised concern over the state's severe rainfall deficit, revealing that Meghalaya recorded more than 80 per cent below-normal rainfall in June and warning that the situation could have serious implications for agriculture, water availability and livelihoods.
Addressing a workshop on 'Developing State Response for El Niño Preparedness: Strengthening Food and Water Security', Sangma described the prolonged rainfall shortfall as an "existential crisis" and stressed the need for immediate, coordinated action to tackle the growing challenges posed by climate change and the possible impact of El Niño.
The workshop brought together senior government officials, deputy commissioners, agricultural experts and other stakeholders to formulate strategies aimed at strengthening the state's preparedness against El Niño while ensuring long-term food and water security.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, the Chief Minister said climate change is no longer a distant threat but a present-day reality. He urged all departments and institutions to adopt a proactive and flexible approach based on scientific data and local conditions rather than waiting for ideal circumstances before taking action.
Sangma also underlined the importance of sustainable farming practices, particularly natural farming, which has already earned Meghalaya national recognition. He said the state would continue to innovate farming techniques suited to its unique geographical and climatic conditions to enhance resilience against changing weather patterns.
Emphasising the need for integrated water management, the Chief Minister called for greater investment in water conservation, spring rejuvenation and the creation of water-retention structures such as check dams and reservoirs to mitigate the effects of erratic rainfall. He also stressed that community participation would be crucial, urging elected representatives, traditional institutions, self-help groups and students to actively contribute to climate resilience initiatives.
"We cannot wait for perfect plans. We must act now. Every step we take today will shape the resilience of future generations," Sangma said, reiterating that timely intervention and collective action are essential to safeguard Meghalaya's food and water security in the face of increasing climate uncertainty.