How is Cyclone Ditwah Affecting Banana Farmers in TN's Mayiladuthurai?
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Synopsis
Devastation strikes banana farmers in Tamil Nadu's Mayiladuthurai as Cyclone Ditwah wreaks havoc, toppling 1,500 trees and threatening livelihoods. With urgent calls for government aid, farmers face uncertainty amidst the festival season. Read on to discover the impact and the farmers' plea for relief.
Key Takeaways
- Cyclone Ditwah caused significant damage to banana crops in Tamil Nadu.
- Nearly 1,500 banana trees were flattened in Mayiladuthurai.
- Farmers are requesting immediate aid from the government.
- Many farms were preparing for the Karthigai Deepam festival.
- A comprehensive damage assessment is underway.
Chennai, Dec 2 (NationPress) Banana farmers in Mayiladuthurai district of Tamil Nadu are grappling with significant crop destruction after powerful winds associated with Cyclone Ditwah uprooted nearly 1,500 banana trees in Aaru Paadhi village, located in Tharangambadi taluk.
Farmers report that the damage is profound and persistent, calling on the state government for immediate financial aid.
In the last five years, Mayiladuthurai has averaged a banana cultivation area of 511 hectares. Recent heavy rains and gusty winds have inundated 37.1 hectares, as per horticulture department officials.
Currently, 48 farmers are engaged in banana farming, many relying on their seasonal yields for their livelihood.
The timing of the destruction is particularly devastating, as a portion of the crop was being prepared for the Karthigai Deepam festival season, a peak sales period for bananas.
“Farmers in the Mayiladuthurai district cultivate bananas in large quantities. The losses in our village alone are staggering,” stated Mayilswami, a farmer from Aaru Paadhi. “I had cultivated banana trees over three acres, planning to harvest for the Karthigai Deepam season, but strong winds destroyed nearly 300 of my trees.”
Most of these trees were at their final growth stage and poised for harvest, resulting in losses surpassing Rs one lakh. “This kind of extreme weather hits us every two years. Farmers are struggling to recover from consistent crop failures, and we urge the government to provide prompt and fair compensation,” he added.
Local farmers share similar sentiments, indicating that recurrent cyclonic storms, torrential rains, and strong winds in the Cauvery delta region have made banana farming increasingly unpredictable. Many fear for their financial stability if immediate assistance does not arrive.
A senior official from the horticulture department confirmed that a comprehensive damage assessment is underway in the affected regions. “Farmers may qualify for compensation if over 33% of their cultivated crops have been damaged. Our teams are currently evaluating the extent of the losses,” the official stated.
Farmers are hopeful that the government will expedite the compensation process, enabling them to salvage what remains of the season and prepare for the upcoming planting cycle.
Point of View
We recognize the plight of the banana farmers in Mayiladuthurai in the wake of Cyclone Ditwah. The recurring weather challenges they face highlight the urgent need for government intervention and support. Ensuring the financial stability of these farmers is vital, not only for their individual livelihoods but also for the agricultural landscape of Tamil Nadu. We stand with the farmers in their call for fair compensation.
NationPress
02/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What damage did Cyclone Ditwah cause in Mayiladuthurai?
Cyclone Ditwah resulted in the destruction of nearly 1,500 banana trees across Aaru Paadhi village, leading to severe crop losses for local farmers.
How many banana farmers are affected?
Currently, there are 48 farmers engaged in banana cultivation in the affected area, many of whom rely on the seasonal harvest for their income.
What is the extent of the losses reported?
Farmers report losses exceeding Rs one lakh, with significant portions of their crops destroyed just before the Karthigai Deepam festival.
Is there any government assistance available for the farmers?
Yes, farmers may be entitled to compensation if over 33% of their crops have been damaged, and assessments are currently being conducted.
How can farmers prepare for future planting cycles?
Farmers hope for expedited compensation from the government to help them salvage their season and prepare for the next planting cycle.
