Balasore/Rayagada: Even though the cyclonic storm Titli retreated after turning into depression and crossed the state, torrential rain triggered by it has caused extensive damage to standing crop in most parts of the state.
Titli-induced flood has caused heavy loss to the state’s agriculture sector. This could hit the farmers already affected by pest attack. It is feared the double whammy could jeopardise the livelihood of lakhs of farmers. And, the loss in terms of damage to standing crops on hundreds of hectares could run into several lakhs, reports said.
Meanwhile, the state government is yet to announce any special package for cyclone-hit farmers.
The worst affected crop was paddy in several acres of land in Sadar and Kolnara blocks of Rayagada district. Thousands of farmers in Kumuti Penta, Maligan and Pentagan villages under Rayagada sub-division are in distress following the crop loss.
“The rain has immersed our paddy fields in water. We don’t know what to do now,” lamented a farmer. The situation in Balasore, Soro and Simulia blocks in Balasore district was no different as the cyclone Titli has damaged a major portion of paddy cultivation in the district.
“Our paddy fields have got completely destroyed in the rain. Neither do the officials of the district administration nor any members of political parties are coming to review the situation or with any assistance,” said a local.
On the other hand, farmers of Srijang, Kuligaon, Tundra, Maharajpur and Inchudia villages of Remuna block in the district are under immense pressure as pest attack after the flood has become their major concern now. The farmers alleged that even though they are using pesticides on the plants, it is of little help.
“After rain, pest attack has added to our woes. We work hard and spend money on farming; if we do not get any profit out of it, then we will have to leave cultivation and work as wage labourers,” rued a farmer.
“The ‘Manjara’ pests are destroying our crops. I have been repeatedly visiting the block office for pesticides, but the officials there are denying citing its unavailability,” alleged another farmer.
Meanwhile, Remuna block agriculture officer Pratirekha Mahalik said, “We are giving pesticides and sprayers at 50 per cent subsidy. This year, we had sought 75 sprayers, so far 26 have come and the rest will also be available soon.”
PNN