In a shocking incident, miscreants allegedly set ablaze a mango orchard in Bhuliasikuan Chhata village under Khariar block of Nuapada district, leaving a farmer’s family in distress.
According to reports, Shankar Bhoi, a resident of the village, had developed the mango orchard on his farmland with support from the Khariar Horticulture Department. Nearly 200 mango saplings had been planted as part of efforts to improve his livelihood through horticulture.
Entire Orchard Reduced To Ashes
However, on Wednesday, unidentified persons allegedly set fire to the orchard. The blaze quickly spread across the plantation, reducing the entire orchard to ashes before it could be brought under control. The fire destroyed all the saplings, causing significant financial loss to the farmer.
Also Read: Odisha farmers allege irregularities in paddy procurement at Nayagarh’s Ranpur society
The incident has left farmer Shankar Bhoi and his family deeply worried, as the orchard was a major source of their expected income in the coming years. Villagers have expressed concern over the act and demanded that the authorities identify those responsible.
Over 200 Trees Burnt
The motive behind the alleged arson is yet to be ascertained. Local authorities are expected to look into the matter, while residents have urged the administration to provide compensation and support to the affected family.
“It was around 12-1 pm. I was at home when someone informed me that our trees were burning. My whole family ran here and immediately informed the fire personnel. The fire tender team reached and doused the flames, but everything was reduced to ashes. Three to four years of our hard work have been burnt now. There were around 200 trees, and almost everything has been burnt. I request the government to provide necessary compensation as my children are studying now,” the victim farmer said.