Ranchi: The severe cyclonic storm ‘Montha’, which originated in the Bay of Bengal, has begun to impact several districts of Jharkhand. On Tuesday, continuous heavy rainfall was recorded across Khunti district, completely changing the weather conditions. The sudden downpour disrupted daily life and posed
a serious threat to the standing crops, leaving farmers deeply worried.
Although the district administration and Krishi Vigyan Kendra (Agriculture Science Centre) had issued an alert two days earlier, farmers in areas with poor communication facilities were caught unprepared. Many were seen wading through water to move their harvested crops to safer places, while others covered their stored paddy with tarpaulins in an effort to protect it from rain damage.
According to the Meteorological Department, 24 mm of rainfall is expected on October 28, 22 mm on October 29, and 21 mm on October 30, while clear skies are likely on October 31. Heavy rainfall has already damaged crops in several blocks, and mild winds have also been reported, causing paddy stalks to collapse in some fields.
Dr. Deepak Rai, Head of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Khunti, and agricultural meteorologist Dr. Rajan Chaudhary advised farmers to strengthen the bunds (field boundaries) in paddy fields to prevent water runoff and maintain controlled water levels for late-maturing transplanted paddy. They further recommended that farmers harvest only when the weather is clear and the sun is out to ensure the grains remain dry. After harvesting, crops should be thoroughly sun-dried and stored in dry, well-ventilated places to avoid moisture damage.
Dr. Rai emphasized that the current weather is crucial for the final stage of kharif crops and urged farmers to stay updated with the latest weather forecasts and plan their agricultural activities accordingly.
Unseasonal Rains Increase Farmer Worries in Rania
The Rania block also experienced heavy rainfall throughout Tuesday, adding to the concerns of local farmers. This year’s healthy paddy yield had filled them with optimism, and harvesting had already begun. However, the unseasonal rain has dashed their hopes. Standing crops of paddy, finger millet (madua), black gram (urad), and vegetables are now at risk of severe damage.
According to the Meteorological Department, heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds is likely to continue until October 30. In view of this forecast, Block Development Officer Prashant Dang has appealed to farmers to store their harvested grains, coarse cereals, and vegetables in safe, dry places to minimize potential losses.
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