Over 900 farmers in Chamarajanagar district faced significant losses when approximately 1,250 acres of banana plantations were destroyed due to heavy rains and wild winds. The damage, estimated at Rs 250 million, occurred just as farmers were preparing for harvest, anticipating better prices. The devastation extends beyond bananas, with papaya cultivations also affected. Gundlupet taluk experienced the most severe damage, with over 700 acres impacted, followed by other areas within the district.
The horticulture department is compiling a comprehensive report on the losses, expected to be completed within a week, through field assistants and village accountants. Early data collection and compensation are being demanded by the farmers, who had managed to cultivate bumper crops despite challenges such as inadequate power supply for irrigation.
Deputy Commissioner Shilpa Nag has promised compensation based on State Disaster Mitigation Fund guidelines. However, farmers seek full compensation rather than nominal amounts to avoid falling into debt. Losses were not confined to Chamarajanagar, with similar reports emerging from Mysuru, including damaged watermelon crops.
[ Rs 100 = €1.10 ]
Source: newindianexpress.com