Rains picked up in some areas from late August, but large parts of western and southern India didn't benefit and farmers have been struggling to pull through the dry patch.

WSJ: India to Get Normal Monsoon Rains

This time, after a 40-minute flight, the commandos' chopper touches down on a patch of dry earth overlooking Zargaran.

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And the patch may need to dry overnight before a layer of micro-asphalt can be laid on top, says a spokeswoman for Hull City Council.

BBC: Jetpatchers at work

Dr Karp's patch mimics this action using minute needles made of plastic with tips that are rigid when dry but swell once they have pierced wet tissue.

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