Severe Weather Disrupts Agriculture in Rajasthan
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Synopsis
Rajasthan experienced a significant weather shift on February 28, with heavy rains and hailstorms damaging crops in Bikaner and Churu, while lighter showers fell in other areas. The state government is conducting assessments to provide relief to affected farmers.
Key Takeaways
- Severe weather caused extensive crop damage.
- Hailstorms affected multiple villages in Churu.
- Farmers are facing substantial financial losses.
- The state government is initiating relief measures.
- Weather is expected to remain dry after March 2.
Jaipur, Feb 28 (NationPress) A dramatic weather change was observed in Rajasthan on Friday, triggered by a western disturbance. Intense rainfall and hailstorms affected Bikaner and Churu, leading to considerable crop damage, while Sriganganagar and Jaisalmer experienced lighter showers.
Most districts, including Jaipur, remained shrouded in clouds. The Meteorological Department forecasts that Jaipur, the Bharatpur division, and the Shekhawati region may experience light rain accompanied by thundershowers on Saturday, whereas the majority of the state is expected to stay predominantly dry.
Beginning March 2, the weather is anticipated to remain dry for several days. In Shekhawati, the weather took another unexpected turn, severely impacting standing crops such as mustard, isabgol, and wheat.
Hailstorms combined with rain struck over a dozen villages including Rajasar Panwaran, Lunasar, Ransisar, and Bijrasar in Churu. The severe hailstorm flattened crops and caused pods to drop, resulting in substantial financial losses for farmers.
Farmers in the Lunkaransar tehsil of Bikaner faced a considerable setback as a devastating hailstorm hit the area. The usually arid landscape temporarily resembled the valleys of Kashmir. Hail struck the fields for 15-20 minutes, causing damage to mature Rabi crops like mustard, gram, wheat, isabgol, and barley. The hailstorm, which began around 3:30 PM, has left many farmers grappling with significant losses.
In response, the state government has initiated surveys to provide relief to farmers affected by the crop damage caused by the rains and hailstorm.
The District Collector, along with subdivision and revenue tehsil officials, has been tasked with assessing the losses. Authorities have already mobilized to the affected areas, and financial support will be based on the survey outcomes.
"Every possible assistance will be rendered to farmers per the damage assessment report,” stated Sumit Godara, the Food and Civil Supplies Minister of Rajasthan.
