This story is from May 29, 2021

Jute, makhana crops damaged in Katihar

Jute, makhana crops damaged in Katihar
KATIHAR: Cyclone Yaas, which made landfall in coastal towns of Odisha and West Bengal, caused an extensive damage to standing jute, makhana and maize crops in Katihar district on Friday.
Damage to ‘boro’ paddy was also reported from some parts of the district. While makhana crop was found submerged in rainwater, harvested maize crops were lying on agricultural fields.
Processed maize kept in open fields for drying purpose were found under water at several places under Korha block of the district.
District agriculture officer Dinesh Kumar Dinkar said, “The district has received more than 200mm rainfall at several places till Friday afternoon. Jute crops in at least 2,500 hectares of land submerged in rainwater. Damages to the maize crops planted in 12,000 hectares of land were also reported in the district. We expect 5-10% damage to jute and other crops.”
Dinkar added a survey would be conducted to assess the crop damage and on the basis of the receipt of the report from ground zero, it will be sent to the disaster management department for perusal and further action.
Sweeti Kumari, weather scientist, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Katihar, said, “Cyclone Yaas is now getting weaker. We had issued an advisory to farmers on May 19-20 that heavy rain was expected on May 27 and 28. On the basis of receipt of weather forecast from IMD, we issue advisory to farmers from time to time,” she added.
“Heavy precipitation causes waterlogging in farmlands of the region. The lowland results in formation of ponds, which causes damage to vegetable crops also,” she said.
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