The New Indian Express ·
El Niño threatens idol immersion in Kadapa
KADAPA: The El Niño effect and prevailing drought-like conditions are posing a major challenge to Ganesh idol immersion in Kadapa district this year, with critically low water levels in rivers, irrigation projects, tanks and canals.
Kadapa district has 40 mandals, of which 27 have recorded rainfall below 50 per cent of normal, while the remaining 13 mandals are also facing a rainfall deficit of more than 50 per cent. Groundwater levels have also declined sharply, from 10.11 metres below ground level last year to 13.58 metres below ground level this year.
The situation has left devotees and Ganesh festival organisers worried about where large idols can be immersed. With most water bodies either dry or carrying limited water, the district administration and festival committees are looking for suitable locations where idols can be immersed safely.
