Himachal weather: Apple growers, other farmers battle drought-like conditions despite forecast for heavy rain
- Himachal weather: After month of drought-like conditions, rain likely on this day - November 5, 2024
- Himachal’s first online wedding leaves many perplexed, how ailing man’s wish forced it to happen - November 5, 2024
- Travel on Chandigarh-Manali highway to get costlier as 2 toll plazas set to resume operations - November 5, 2024
Despite the weather department’s forecast of heavy rains, several areas in Himachal Pradesh are experiencing drought-like conditions, causing significant distress among farmers. The anticipated rains have failed to materialise on the ground, leading to dry and withering crops across various regions.
In numerous areas, the lack of rain has severely affected the agricultural landscape. The apple crop, a staple in Himachal Pradesh, is struggling to form properly, while other fruit crops face similar challenges. The maize crop in several regions is particularly impacted, with drought-like conditions gripping vast expanses of farmland. Additionally, pulse crops and vegetables are nearing destruction due to the prolonged dry spell.
Bilaspur district, in particular, is witnessing stunted crop growth due to insufficient rainfall. While some areas like Daavin valley and Ghumarvin received good rain on Thursday, bringing temporary relief to farmers, most parts of the district remain parched. The inconsistency in rainfall has left farmers in the entire district worried, with vegetable growth being hit the hardest. The maize crop is now also showing signs of stress due to the lack of water.
In Chamba district, the paddy crop in Sihunta and Kamla areas of the Bhattiyat Assembly constituency is on the verge of drying up, having received no rain for the past two weeks.
Solan district is facing severe crop damage, with maize, tomato, capsicum and other crops deteriorating due to the drought. The region has experienced good rainfall only twice this monsoon, with the weather remaining adverse for crop growth. The humid heat further exacerbates the damage to crops. The maize crop, in particular, is suffering from an outbreak of the fall armyworm insect, which has already destroyed 15 percent of the crop. Solan district cultivates maize on approximately 23,500 hectares, yielding about 58,750 metric tonnes of production annually. This year, the drought-like conditions have severely affected maize farmers, compounding their challenges with the fall armyworm infestation.
In Mandi district, the lack of rain over the past two weeks has led to unbearable humidity. Despite occasional nominal showers, there has been no substantial relief from the heat or any significant improvement in crop conditions. The ongoing dry spell has damaged both paddy and maize crops. On Saturday, the day started sunny, but the sky turned cloudy by noon, providing some hope, though no rain followed.
