Declare Ambegaon, Khed Drought-Hit Areas, Says MP Amol Kolhe

• Shirur MP urges Maharashtra government to provide drought relief, concessions and necessary assistance

PUNE : Shirur Lok Sabha MP Dr. Amol Kolhe has urged the Maharashtra government to officially declare Ambegaon and Khed talukas in his constituency as drought-affected and extend necessary relief and concessions to farmers and citizens facing water scarcity.

In a letter to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis dated September 29, Kolhe said the drought situation in parts of Ambegaon and Khed has adversely affected agriculture, drinking water availability and the livelihood of farmers.

Kolhe pointed out that the state government had declared drought in several talukas based on the drought assessment process for the 2026 kharif season. However, he said Ambegaon and Khed had not been included despite the difficult ground situation.

He said areas including Loni, Dhamani, Shiradale, Mandlewadi, Vadgaonpir and Pahadadara were facing serious difficulties and called for an immediate assessment of the actual situation.

According to Kolhe, inadequate rainfall has affected kharif crops and raised concerns over water availability for people and livestock. He also highlighted the impact of water shortages in parts of Khed taluka, including villages in the Dhamane and Loni areas.

Kolhe urged the government to conduct a ground-level assessment of rainfall, crop losses, water availability and other indicators and take a decision on declaring the two talukas drought-affected.

He also sought drought assistance, concessions and other eligible government benefits for affected farmers and citizens.