Cuttack: Paddy farmers from Banki block of Cuttack district voiced their concern over cyclonic storm Fani wreaking havoc on their paddy cultivation.
The farmers opined that the storm hit before they could cut down the plants and move the paddy to safer locations. The punishing rains and gusty winds uprooted many plants and whatever left was rendered useless. Stagnant water led to paddy getting sprouted.
Farmers also alleged that Government officials have turned a blind eye to their concerns.
“The officials said that the cyclone hit after harvesting which is not true.”
“We had taken loans for paddy farming, and now we have nothing to pay off the loans”, said the farmers. They also requested for compensation for paddy damage.
Banki BDO has assured that damage assessment is underway and farmers will be compensated as per the reports.
Also Read: Cyclone Fani: Death Toll Touches 64 in Odisha
Ms Kalinga