Karnataka faces drought crisis as CM warns of water, power shortages

Speaking about the worsening conditions, Shivakumar said large parts of the state have already suffered extensive crop damage, while many farmers were unable to cultivate their lands because of inadequate rainfall. The government has declared more than 100 taluks drought-hit and is assessing additional regions for similar classification.

According to official assessments, rainfall has remained below normal in nearly every district of Karnataka, with some areas recording deficits exceeding 50 percent. The shortfall has affected reservoir levels, groundwater recharge and irrigation supplies, raising concerns over agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods.

The power sector is also under pressure. Karnataka's electricity demand recently crossed 19,000 MW, forcing the state to purchase power from external sources at higher rates. The government is now exploring options such as increasing thermal power generation and sourcing additional electricity through the national grid to meet future demand.

The drought has also intensified Karnataka's concerns over water availability amid the ongoing Cauvery dispute. State officials have argued that water reserves are under severe stress, making releases to downstream regions increasingly difficult.

With crop losses mounting and concerns growing over drinking water availability, the state government is expected to seek additional assistance from the Centre while preparing long-term measures to address the drought emergency.