Rains and Floods Ravage Over 20 Lakh Acres of Crops in Telangana
2024-09-04 16:05:31
In Telangana, Rain and Floods Destroy Over 20 Lakh Acres of Crops
Telangana has been severely affected by recent heavy rains and floods, leading to widespread crop damage across the state. Initial estimates suggested crop losses in about 4.15 lakh acres, but sources now indicate that over 20 lakh acres may have been destroyed. Final figures will be confirmed after a thorough assessment, but officials are already concerned about a significant decline in crop production this season.
The worst-affected districts include Mahabubabad, Mulugu, Khammam, Nalgonda, Nagarkurnool, Mahabubnagar, Hanamkonda, Bhadradri Kothagudem, and Jangaon. Early assessments show that paddy, cotton, and maize have suffered the most, with cotton at particular risk since it was in the flowering stage. Standing water in fields could cause the plants to turn red and dry out, leading to further losses.
Agricultural scientists warn that the situation could deteriorate if the rains continue, especially for cotton, which is cultivated on nearly 42.6 lakh acres in the state. Cotton cultivation has already decreased by nearly eight lakh acres during the current Vanakalam (Kharif) season, down from the normal sown area of 50.4 lakh acres.
The ongoing heavy rains have severely disrupted agricultural activities, with sowing operations covering only 1.1 crore acres, compared to the season's normal sown area of 1.29 crore acres. Paddy is being cultivated in about 48 lakh acres and cotton in 42.6 lakh acres, both of which are now likely to see reduced production due to the adverse weather conditions.
The relentless downpour has caused widespread concern among farmers, with 85,323 farmers already reporting significant losses across the state. Khammam district alone has seen 46,374 farmers affected, followed by Mahabubabad with 18,089 and Suryapet with 9,227.
In addition to waterlogging, the majority of crops, including paddy, cotton, maize, soybean, sorghum, and millets, are facing an increased threat of pests, which could further impact production. The Agriculture Department is currently assessing the damage, with a full report expected soon to provide a comprehensive understanding of the losses.
