Cyclone Titli Aftermath: Standing crops in several acres damaged

Balasore/Rayagada: Even though the very severe cyclonic storm Titli turned into depression and crossed the State, the rain triggered by it has caused extensive damages to standing crops in several acres of land in Sadar and Kolnara blocks of Rayagada district.

Thousands of farmers in Kumuti Penta, Maligan and Pentagan villages under Rayagada sub-division are in distress following the crop loss.

“The rain has immersed our paddy fields in water. We don't know what to do now,” lamented a farmer, K Rami Naidu.

The situation in Balasore, Soro and Simulia blocks in Balasore district is no different as the cyclone Titli has damaged a major portion of paddy cultivation in the district.

“Our paddy fields have got completely destroyed in the rain. Neither do the officials of the district administration nor any members of political parties are coming to review the situation or with any assistance,” said a resident of Kabirpur, Bibhubhusan Behera.

On the other hand, farmers of Srijang, Kuligaon, Tundra, Maharajpur and Inchudia villages of Remuna block in the district are in immense pressure as pest-attack after the flood has become their major concern now. The farmers alleged that even though they are using pesticides in the plants, it is of little help.

“After rain, pest-attack has added to our woes. We work hard and spend money in farming; if we do not get any profit out of it, then we will have to leave cultivation and work as wage labourers,” rued a farmer, Niranjan Biswal.

“The ‘Manjara’ pests are destroying our crops. I have been repeatedly visiting the block office for pesticides, but the officials there are denying citing its unavailability,” alleged another farmer, Radhakrushna Pradhan.

Meanwhile, agriculture officer of Remuna block, Pratirekha Mahalik said, “We are giving pesticides and sprayers at 50 per cent subsidy. This year, we had sought 75 sprayers, so far 26 have come and the rest will also be available soon.”