Kharif season rainfall surpasses forecast in Odisha, crop damage feared in some places

Odisha has received 15 percent more rainfall than normal so far in the ongoing Kharif season, according to the Agriculture Department. The update was presented after a meeting of the Crop Weather Watch Group, where Odisha Agriculture Department’s Principal Secretary, Arabina Padhee shared the seasonal data and progress.

While 515 mm of rainfall was expected, the actual rainfall recorded to date is at 591.8 mm. The excess rainfall has contributed to a steady pace of crop sowing across the state.

Sowing Progresses Ahead Of Last Year

A target of 58.5 lakh hectares was set for crop plantation this season. Of this, sowing is already completed in 26.75 lakh hectares, higher than the corresponding figure for the same period last year. Padhee informed that the overall crop condition in the state remains normal.

Flood Poses Risk In Northern Districts

However, crop damage is feared in some parts of Balasore, Keonjhar, and Mayurbhanj districts due to flooding in the Jalaka, Baitarani, and Subarnarekha rivers.

Damage Assessment Underway

In light of the flood situation, field officials have been directed to assess crop loss in the affected areas. Padhee said these damage assessment reports are to be submitted to the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) through the respective district collectors.