Chandigarh (National Times): After weeks of scorching temperatures and growing water concerns, Punjab is finally set to receive the long-awaited relief from the southwest monsoon. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed that monsoon conditions are becoming favourable for further advancement into Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi within the next two days.
Currently, the Northern Limit of Monsoon (NLM) passes through key regions such as Jaipur, Agra, Rampur, Dehradun, Shimla, and Manali, and extends up to 33.5°N/79.0°E, inching closer to the plains of Punjab.
The IMD has reported that the monsoon has already covered most parts of Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh, and large areas of East and West Uttar Pradesh. With favourable meteorological conditions and moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea strengthening, the monsoon is expected to reach some parts of Punjab and Haryana imminently.
A Much-Needed Break for Punjab
Punjab, which has been grappling with intense summer heat, deficient pre-monsoon rainfall, and mounting pressure on groundwater levels, is eagerly awaiting the monsoon’s arrival. The anticipated rains are likely to provide immediate relief to both urban dwellers battling heatwaves and farmers preparing for the sowing season, especially of paddy and other Kharif crops.
Agricultural Boost Expected
Agriculture experts say the timely arrival of the monsoon in Punjab could help mitigate the delay in paddy transplantation and boost soil moisture levels across the agrarian belt. Districts like Ludhiana, Patiala, Sangrur, and Amritsar, which are heavily dependent on seasonal rains, are likely to benefit significantly if the monsoon progresses as forecasted.
According to the IMD, the next 48 hours are critical, and if current conditions persist, light to moderate rainfall could begin in southern and central Punjab, followed by more widespread showers later in the week.
