Crores of Horticultural Loss at Uttar Dinajpur Due to Flood, Farmers Worried [VIDEO]

By Dipankar Dey (TNI Islampur) | TNI Editing Siliguri

Webdesk, TNI Islampur, 30^th August, 2017: At least 93K and 750 Metric ton of horticultural production at Uttar Dinajpur has been affected due to the ongoing flood situation. This is the first time in the district’s history that the loss reached such an epitome. The farmers have already started demanding compensation in this regard. The administration has already assured to distribute seed free of cost to the affected farmers. The administration also declared that the nine blocks of the district i.e. Raiganj 1200 hectares, Hemtabad 50 hectares, Kaliyaganj 600 hectares, Itahar 800 hectares, Karandighi 850 hectares, Chopra 300 hectares, Islampur 700 hectares, Goalpokhor 900 hectares and Chakulia have lost crops around 25 crores. This time the water stayed for too long resulting in total damage of the agricultural lands. Some farmers have got loans by Kisan Credit card, for them they will get the compensation. However, a large number of farmers are not in the purview of Kishan Credit card hence they may not receive the compensation. These farmers are in great uncertainty because when will the seeds from Government arrive is still unknown. According to District Officer, Department of Food Processing Industries and Horticulture Mr. Dipak Sarkar “There is a huge loss in all Agriculture lands totaling to an economic loss of Rs. 93 Crore and 75 thousand. The report is sent to the Government of West Bengal and requisitions of 266 metric ton of seeds of fast growing vegetables are also called for. The seeds that were asked for are Radish, Cauliflower, Chillies, Spinach etc.”

Photos: Dipankar Dey (TNI)