Continuous rain after Cyclone Montha worsens farmers’ plight in Odisha

Farmers in Sanakhemundi in Ganjam district continue to reel under the aftermath of Cyclone Montha, as continuous rain has worsened the plight of farmers. The continuous drizzle, persisting since the cyclone’s formation, has left fields waterlogged and farmlands submerged, worsening the situation for already distressed cultivators.

Continuous rainfall in the area has left rivers and canals overflowing, along with waterlogging in agricultural fields, resulting in drainage blockage. At the same time, the release of floodwater from nearby dams has further inundated farmlands.

Paddy fields and vegetable crops have been submerged, leaving vast stretches of cultivable land underwater. Farmers living along the banks of the Sanakhemundi river are facing severe distress as their crops remain submerged and losses mount.

Describing their plight, a farmer said, “Our paddy crops have been completely destroyed. We urge the government to extend immediate help to farmers. It’s not just this land; most of the agricultural fields are submerged. The heavy waterlogging triggered by continuous rainfall has left the entire drainage system dysfunctional.”

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Another farmer said, “All our crops are submerged under water. It would be a great relief if the government extends timely support to us.”
Farmers have expressed concerns over frequent low-pressure systems and continuous rainfall, which are worsening their situation. They are grappling with extensive crop damage, waterlogged fields, and mounting financial losses as their hopes for a good harvest fade away.