Severe Drought Damages Over 84,000 Hectares of Coconut Plantations Across Karnataka
Farmers face losses of more than ₹592 crore as experts warn drought impact could affect production for up to three years
Bengaluru, September 27: Severe drought and water shortages have caused extensive damage to coconut plantations across Karnataka, raising concerns over the long term impact on farmers and the state’s horticulture sector.
According to the latest survey by the Department of Horticulture, coconut plantations spread across 84,656 hectares have been completely or partially damaged across the state. The estimated direct loss to farmers has been put at around ₹592.59 crore.
Agricultural and horticultural experts have warned that the impact may extend beyond the current season because coconut trees take several years to recover and return to normal production after severe water stress. Reduced production could continue to affect farmers and market prices for up to three years.
Survey Conducted in Drought Hit Taluks
Following directions from the Karnataka government, the Department of Horticulture, Revenue Department and Disaster Management Authority conducted a detailed assessment across 124 severely affected taluks.
The survey found that coconut cultivation has suffered the largest damage among horticultural crops, followed by onions and other vegetables.Karnataka has around 5.6 lakh hectares under coconut cultivation. A large portion of these plantations has been affected by severe water shortages.
Another 50 taluks, including areas in Tumakuru and Chitradurga districts, have now been added for assessment. Officials are expected to complete the formal damage assessment in these areas within the next 15 days, which could further increase the estimated loss.
Hassan Among Worst AffectedHassan district has emerged as one of the worst affected areas. According to the preliminary assessment, coconut plantations across around 84,541 hectares out of 97,999 hectares have suffered significant damage.
More than 115 hectares of coconut plantations have also been reported affected in Haveri district.
Horticulture Department Joint Director Shakeel Ahmed said severe heat and falling groundwater levels had disrupted flowering and fruit formation in coconut trees.
He explained that prolonged water stress can damage the root system, reducing the trees’ ability to absorb water and nutrients. As a result, the decline in production could continue for around 36 months, creating difficulties for farmers, agricultural workers and the wider rural economy.
Karnataka is the second largest coconut producing state in India after Kerala. However, a large number of farmers depend on borewells and drip irrigation systems, many of which have been severely affected by the current water shortage.
Pests and Diseases Add to Farmers’ Problems
Experts have also warned that drought weakened trees are becoming more vulnerable to pests and diseases, including rugose spiralling whitefly and black headed caterpillar.
Former Vice Chancellor of the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru, Dr K. Narayana Gowda, has recommended stronger scientific measures to control diseases and protect affected trees.According to experts, financial compensation alone may not be sufficient to address the long term damage caused by the drought. Measures for disease control, plant recovery and scientific management of affected plantations will also be necessary.
Local farmers said coconut production that previously averaged around 90 to 100 nuts per acre has fallen to between 30 and 50, adding to the financial pressure on rural households.
With additional areas still awaiting assessment, officials and agricultural experts expect the overall impact of the drought on Karnataka’s coconut sector to become clearer in the coming weeks.