Hyderabad, October 5, 2026 – Telangana continues to remain under drought alert following a deficient 2026 southwest monsoon that ended with a 17% rainfall shortfall. The state government has declared 235 mandals drought-hit and is preparing to convene an all-party meeting to discuss the impact on agriculture and water resources.
Monsoon Performance and Rainfall Deficit
According to data from the Telangana Development Planning Society (TGDPS), the state received 615.5 mm of rainfall between June 1 and September 30 against the seasonal normal of 740.6 mm, resulting in a 17% deficit. This was also 38% lower than the rainfall recorded in 2025.
While the overall figure kept Telangana in the India Meteorological Department’s “normal” rainfall category, the impact was highly uneven. Eighteen of the state’s 33 districts recorded deficient rainfall. Jogulamba Gadwal faced the highest shortfall at 41%, followed by Narayanpet and Hanumakonda at 35% each, and Nalgonda at 34%. Hyderabad itself recorded a deficit of around 27%.
August saw the sharpest monthly deficit of 38%, while September ended with a 15% shortfall. The deficient monsoon has been partly attributed to El Niño conditions.
Reservoir storage levels have dropped significantly. Combined storage in Krishna and Godavari basin reservoirs stood at 503.43 TMCft as of September 30, compared to 834.92 TMCft on the same date last year. Many minor irrigation tanks are also critically low, with thousands holding less than 25% of capacity or completely dry.
Farmers in rain-fed areas and those dependent on lift irrigation schemes such as Kaleshwaram and Palamuru-Rangareddy have raised concerns over crop stress and potential yield losses. Increased reliance on groundwater has also pushed up power demand for agricultural pumping.
Government Response
The State Cabinet has declared 235 mandals drought-hit and decided to seek central assistance for El Niño-related losses. A cabinet sub-committee has been tasked with assessing the damage. An all-party meeting is planned to gather suggestions from political parties, farmers’ organisations, and experts before a special cabinet meeting finalises relief and mitigation measures.
Officials are also monitoring drinking water supplies under Mission Bhagiratha and preparing contingency plans as groundwater levels and surface water reserves continue to decline.
The situation remains fluid, with the possibility of limited post-monsoon rains offering partial relief. Authorities are urging efficient water use and close monitoring of agricultural conditions in the coming weeks.
