Shimla, Feb. 24 -- The prolonged dry spell gripping Himachal Pradesh has pushed several districts into severe rainfall deficit, with Sirmaur, Solan and Una emerging among the worst affected.
With no significant rain or snowfall forecast for the next 10-15 days, concerns are mounting over an impending summer water crisis and declining agricultural output.
According to data released by the (IMD), Solan recorded only 3 mm rainfall against a normal of 53.4 mm - a 94 per cent deficit - while Una registered a 92 p c shortfall. Sirmaur received 3.7 mm against a normal of 50.6 mm, marking a 93 p c deficiency. Shimla received 13.8 mm against a normal of 57.7 mm, marking a 76 p c deficiency.
Statewide rainfall departure stands at around 81 p c bel...