India, July 10 -- Even as the Marathwada meteorological subdivision continues to grapple with a 39% rainfall deficit this season, the Jayakwadi dam-considered the lifeline of the drought-prone region-has recorded an unexpected and record-breaking water storage of 66.39% as of early July. This marks a dramatic improvement from the paltry 4.12% water storage recorded during the corresponding period last year.

Also, according to experts, such levels are rarely seen in July as the dam typically holds only up to 10% of its capacity during this time. They attribute the unusually high storage to early and intense rainfall in May and June, especially in upstream regions like Nashik district, which contributed significantly to the inflow into the...