HYDERABAD: Unseasonal and intense rainfall, accompanied by strong winds and hailstorms, caused widespread destruction to crops across several districts in Telangana, dealing a severe blow to farmers already under financial stress.
Paddy stored at procurement centres was soaked and spoiled, raising concerns of delays in government procurement. Crops including paddy, cotton, chillies, and vegetables were devastated by the storm. In mango orchards, premature fruit fall has led to significant losses for orchard owners.
In several villages, electricity supply was completely disrupted due to the adverse weather conditions. Small and marginal farmers, already burdened with debt, now face further hardship and are in urgent need of crop insurance payouts and compensation.
Farmers have called on the government to immediately assess the extent of damage and provide relief. The agriculture department has advised cultivators to take immediate protective measures to safeguard whatever remains of their standing crops.
Meteorologists have warned of more rainfall in the coming days, which could worsen the situation further.
