MARGAO: Torrential rains have inundated vast expanses of paddy fields across Salcete taluka, leaving farmers and agricultural officials deeply concerned about potential crop losses. When asked about the impact, the agricultural department has warned that paddy seedlings may rot if submerged for more than five days, intensifying worries among the farming community.
A farmer from Seraulim highlighted the severity of the situation, stating, “With the floodwaters yet to recede, we are concerned that the seedlings might have already rotted.”
Farmers in Nuvem and Mungul are particularly affected as well, grappling with severe flooding of their paddy fields.
The impact of the incessant rains has been widespread, affecting numerous villages including Verna, Betalbatim, and the khazan fields of Loutolim and Curtorim. Farmers from Navelim, Telaulim, Chinchinim, Carmona, and surrounding areas, who had just completed sowing their crops, now face the prospect of significant losses due to widespread flooding.
“The recent heavy rains have wreaked havoc, leading many farmers to speak about losses,” said a senior farmer. In response to the crisis, agricultural officers have urged affected farmers to file complaints with the agriculture office to seek compensation, following the established procedures.
As the rains continue to pound the State, the agricultural community in Salcete taluka remains on high alert, hoping for a respite that would allow their crops to recover. The coming days will be crucial in determining the extent of the damage and the potential impact on local agriculture.
