TV
As floodwaters slowly recede in parts of Balasore, the devastation left behind by the swelling Subarnarekha River paints a grim picture for the farming community. In areas like Aaruhabruti under Bhograi block, farmers are reportedly grappling with massive losses after their crops were submerged under water for five consecutive days.
The floodwater has not only inundated fields but also destroyed the dreams of hundreds of farmers. Paddy fields, jute farming, and vegetable crops that were in their peak stage of flowering and fruiting have been wiped out. What remains now is a layer of silt and rotting vegetation.
Impact Of The Flood:
Even though the water level of Subarnarekha River is now gradually decreasing, the damage has already been done. Entire stretches of farmland are now covered in decomposing plants, with no sign of revival in the near future.
The impact has been especially severe on jute cultivation, a major source of livelihood for many in the region, which has been completely uprooted and spoiled due to prolonged waterlogging.
Not just seasonal vegetables and horticulture, the flood has also washed away standing paddy crops and nurseries meant for the upcoming season, adding to the distress of farmers who were already reeling under debt and rising input costs.
The affected farmers are now demanding compensation from the district administration. They have urged the authorities to conduct a comprehensive assessment of crop damage and extend timely relief and financial support to help them recover from the disaster.
The administration has initiated preliminary surveys, but the full extent of damage is yet to be officially quantified.
