Maharashtra Drought Crisis: 5,000 Hectares of Orange Orchards Destroyed, Grapevines Wither

Maharashtra severe drought has devastated fruit farms, leaving growers struggling to save their trees and vines. Wells are drying up, rainfall remains scarce, and water transportation costs continue to rise. Farmers fear losing plantations that require years of investment and patience. The crisis has affected grapes, oranges, mangoes, bananas and pomegranates across several districts. Many growers warn that losing their plants could destroy their livelihoods for years.

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Maharashtra Drought Threatens Grapevines and Fruit Orchards Across the State

The state has declared 265 of its 358 talukas drought-affected following an 18.8% rainfall deficit. Marathwada and Vidarbha face particularly difficult conditions, with farmers reporting rapidly declining water supplies. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has warned that the situation could surpass the devastating drought of 1972. The government has announced loan restructuring, land revenue concessions and electricity-related relief. However, farmers continue demanding immediate water supplies and financial assistance to protect their plantations.

Grape growers in Nashik and other major producing districts have begun struggling to maintain their vineyards. October marks a crucial stage in the grape-growing cycle, as farmers prepare vines for the next harvest. Maharashtra produces a significant share of India’s grapes and contributes substantially to the country’s fruit exports. Growers estimate that cultivating grapes costs between ₹50,000 and ₹60,000 per acre each season. If drought destroys the vines, farmers may need to wait four years before newly planted vines produce commercially.

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Farmers Demand Emergency Water Supplies as Crop Losses Mount

The drought has also severely affected orange orchards in Amravati, where reports indicate that farmers have cut down trees across approximately 5,000 hectares. Mango, banana and pomegranate growers face similar challenges as water shortages threaten fruit development and future harvests. Some experts believe farmers might save only 30% of fruit production without urgent intervention. Shade nets could protect trees from intense sunlight, but covering an acre may cost around ₹69,000 for the net alone. Additional installation expenses make this solution difficult for financially stressed farmers.

Farmers are increasingly purchasing expensive water supplies to keep their crops alive. In Shahapur, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, one farmer reportedly spends ₹3,000 daily on two water tankers after his well dried up. Across Marathwada, authorities have deployed hundreds of tankers to supply villages facing shortages. Maharashtra has requested central assistance, and an inter-ministerial team assessed crop damage and relief requirements between October 8 and 11. Farmers now await urgent support, as the destruction of perennial plantations could cause lasting agricultural and economic losses.

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