MUMBAI, June 30 -- Maharashtra has endured one of its weakest starts to the monsoon season, ending June with a staggering 52% rainfall deficit after a delayed onset and a nearly two-week pause in the monsoon's advance. According to India Meteorological Department (IMD) data for the period between June 1 and 29, the state received just 96.2 mm of rainfall against the normal 199.9 mm for the month. The southwest monsoon reached Kerala on June 4, three days later than its normal onset date of June 1. It entered Maharashtra through Sindhudurg on June 6 and advanced up to Ratnagiri and Solapur by June 9. However, unfavourable atmospheric conditions stalled its progress for nearly two weeks, leaving vast parts of the state, including Pune, largely dry during a period when monsoon rains are usually well established. The subdued rainfall is in line with the IMD's long-range forecast issued in May, which had indicated that several parts of the country were likely to receive below-normal rainfall during this monsoon season. Most districts in Maharashtra have recorded rainfall deficits (SEE BOX) ranging between 60% and 90%, highlighting the weak start to the season. Among the state's four meteorological subdivisions, Central Maharashtra has recorded the highest rainfall deficit at 57%, receiving only 64.4 mm against the normal 150.7 mm. The Konkan and Goa subdivision has registered a 52% deficit, recording 316.4 mm of rainfall against the normal 663.6 mm. Marathwada has reported a 42% deficit, receiving 75.5 mm against the normal 129.5 mm, while Vidarbha has recorded a 48% shortfall with 87.4 mm of rainfall against the normal 167.5 mm. The IMD on Monday said rainfall activity is expected to increase across Maharashtra from July 1. "Rainfall activity is expected to increase in Maharashtra from July 1 onwards, and alerts have been issued accordingly," said SD Sanap, senior meteorologist at IMD Pune. An orange alert has been issued for the Konkan region for heavy rainfall. Pune city has been placed under a yellow alert for light to moderate rainfall between June 30 and July 3. The ghat areas of Pune district are expected to receive heavy rainfall from July 1 to 3....