Low-pressure panic in Odisha, Gajapati farmers rush to save crops before the storm

The looming formation of a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal has once again sparked anxiety among farmers in Odisha’s Gajapati district.

Haunted by memories of last year’s devastating rains, maize cultivators in the region, particularly in Mohana block, have begun harvesting their crops earlier than usual, determined not to relive another season of loss.

Scenes from the fields show farmers working relentlessly under darkening skies, racing against time to secure their produce before the weather turns hostile. For many, maize cultivation is their main source of livelihood, and last year’s heavy downpour had wiped out most of their yield, pushing several families into financial distress. This time, they are taking no chances.

However, the decision to harvest prematurely brings fresh challenges. Farmers now struggle to find dry, safe storage for their maize, fearing that moisture could spoil what they’ve managed to save. Despite these obstacles, their focus remains clear, protecting their crops and securing some income before the rains arrive.

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“We lost a major portion of our produce last year, so we are not taking any risk this time,” said one farmer.
Another villager added with concern, “Some of our crops are already damaged, and we haven’t received any compensation. With no proper storage facilities, we are struggling to safeguard our harvest.”