According to Regional Agriculture Directorate (RAD) at Biratnagar, plantations have been largely affected mainly in Jhapa, Morang, Sunsari, Siraha, Saptari and Udayapur district.
The violent winds of May 23 and 25 brought down crops, vegetable and fruits that were nearly ready for harvest. Compared to other districts, farmers in Morang district have been hit the hardest."Cash crops and fruits like banana and beetle nut and green vegetables were damaged by the strong winds. As per our preliminary investigation, crops worth Rs 130 million have been ruined in two days," said Arun Kumar Ghimire, senior crop conservation officer.
Out of 19,000 hectors of banana plantation in Morang, trees in 200 hectares have been completely damaged and crops in 500 hectares were partially damaged. As per the record of RAD, the wind has destroyed 150 hectares of beetle nuts. Lychee and vegetables fields have also been completely ravaged in many areas.
Farmers in Siraha district have suffered similar losses. "Out of 5,000 hectares of mango plantation, tress in 2,500 hectares fell to the ground," said Ghimire.
More than Rs 60 million worth of off-season vegetables and fruits were affected in Udayapur district. Rubber plantations in Jhapa district have also suffered heavy losses. The situation of banana and beetle nut in the district is no better.
Although government has the provision of offering 75 percent premium as relief through crop insurance, only few farmers have made the claim. However, uninsured farmers will not be able to claim the compensation.
Meanwhile, farmers in the affected districts have been demanding compensation for the losses. The farmers have already submitted requests at their respective District Administration Offices and Regional Agricultural Offices.
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