Could the Tea Sector in Northern Bengal Face Over Rs 100 Crore in Losses Due to Recent Rain and Landslides?
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Synopsis
As northern Bengal faces an environmental crisis, the tea sector anticipates substantial financial losses due to recent heavy rains and landslides. With estimates exceeding Rs 100 crore, industry experts stress the need for immediate government support and foresee potential price increases in the upcoming months. What does this mean for the future of tea production in the region?
Key Takeaways
- Over Rs 100 crore in losses expected in northern Bengal's tea sector.
- Severe impact on tea gardens due to heavy rainfall and landslides.
- Government support is critical for recovery.
- Potential rise in tea prices anticipated in the upcoming months.
- Initial estimates indicate 30 affected tea gardens.
Kolkata, Oct 6 (NationPress) In light of the current turmoil affecting the hills, Terai, and Dooars regions of West Bengal due to heavy rainfall and recurrent landslides over the past few days, the local tea industry is predicting losses exceeding Rs 100 crore as a result of this natural calamity.
The secretary of the Dooars branch of the Tea Association of India, Ram Avtar Sharma, stated that while precise figures on the losses in the tea sector are still being compiled, preliminary estimates indicate that the financial impact could be no less than Rs 100 crore or potentially more.
“To my knowledge, the tea sector in North Bengal has not encountered such significant losses previously. The sector urgently requires government support,” he remarked.
The tea industry is currently grappling with the disaster in two significant ways. Firstly, numerous tea gardens in the hills, Terai, and Dooars regions have suffered extensive damage due to rain and landslides, impacting the tea leaves before they can be harvested.
Secondly, severe waterlogging has affected the storage facilities of processed tea leaves in the area, leading to considerable losses.
Initial assessments reveal that approximately 30 out of a total of 276 tea gardens in the hills, Terai, and Dooars regions have been significantly impacted by flooding and landslides, with the Terai region experiencing the highest number of affected gardens, totaling 15.
“These figures are preliminary. The exact number of impacted gardens and the total loss will be determined in due time,” commented an associate from the Tea Association of India.
Industry experts believe that, given the current losses and disruption in tea production, tea prices may rise in the coming months.
Point of View
The tea industry in West Bengal is not just a local economic driver but a significant contributor to the national agricultural landscape. The current crisis underscores the vulnerability of our agricultural sectors to climate change and natural disasters. It is crucial for the government to step in and provide the necessary support to ensure the survival of this vital industry.
NationPress
07/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What regions are affected by the recent rains and landslides?
The hills, Terai, and Dooars regions of West Bengal are primarily affected.
How much is the tea sector expected to lose?
The tea sector is anticipating losses exceeding Rs 100 crore.
What assistance is needed for the tea industry?
The tea sector requires immediate government support to mitigate the losses.
How many tea gardens are affected?
Approximately 30 out of 276 tea gardens in the affected regions have suffered significant damage.
Will tea prices increase due to these losses?
Yes, experts predict that tea prices may rise in the coming months due to production disruptions.
