Sohra Faces Alarming Decline in Rainfall Amid Climate Concerns

Significant Drop in Rainfall Recorded

Sohra, July 8: Sohra, located in Meghalaya and renowned as the wettest place on the planet, experienced a drastic reduction in rainfall this June, receiving only one-third of the precipitation compared to the same month last year.

This situation has raised serious concerns regarding the effects of climate change.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that Sohra, also known as Cherrapunji, recorded just 1,095.4 mm of rainfall in June, a significant decrease from the 3,041.2 mm recorded during the same month in the previous year.

This decline is one of the most severe year-on-year drops in rainfall for the area, according to an IMD representative.

“This is quite alarming. Sohra has been experiencing erratic rainfall patterns for several years, but such a drastic reduction in June is particularly concerning,” the official stated.

Data from May was also troubling, showing a shortfall of approximately 400 mm compared to the same month last year.

Over the last fifteen years, there has been a notable decrease in Sohra's average annual rainfall, the official noted.

Since 2005, the town has received only about 8,000 mm to 9,000 mm of rain each year, compared to a normal average of around 11,000 mm.

This 'normal' figure of 11,000 mm is significantly lower than the 1970s when Sohra typically recorded nearly double that amount.

In 1974, the town set a world record by receiving 24,555 mm of rain, a record that remains unbroken. The current annual average is now about one-third of that figure, according to the official.

Experts attribute this decline to changing monsoon patterns, deforestation, rising sea temperatures, and urban development.

The increasing population and tourist influx are exacerbating the situation.

In 1961, Sohra had a population of around 7,000, but today it is home to over 70,000 residents, as reported by a local official.

This population surge has placed immense strain on the town's water resources.

Despite its reputation for heavy rainfall, Sohra is ironically facing water shortages, particularly during dry spells.

Villagers are increasingly dependent on fragile springs, while some areas require water to be delivered by tankers, who charge high prices to meet the demand.

Local conservationists are calling for urgent measures such as reforestation, watershed protection, and stricter regulations on construction to prevent an impending ecological crisis.

“The rainfall crisis is no longer just about records; it’s about the future sustainability of Sohra,” warned an environmental activist based in Shillong.

Officials have stated they will keep a close watch on the monsoon patterns but acknowledge that the ongoing decline raises significant concerns for the region.