Hail storm in the interior parts of Maharashtra has caused heavy damage to the crops and two farmers were killed in in a surprise storm in the state. Nearly crops in 2L hectare of land were destroyed in the hailstorm. The main crops of grapes were totally damaged causing distress to the farmers in this part. The surprise hailstorm in the beginning of the summer season accompanying thunder showers which lasted less than 15 minutes caused extensive damage and this is a regular routine during this time of the year. To add to that, worms eat into cotton crops and it is a huge loss to farmers. This is happening because of global warming and the weather broadcast failed to address the problem. The short but destructive hail storm did destroy wheat, jowar among other crops and it is pitiable position because of the vagaries of weather.
Hailstorm hit the pockets of farmers of Marathwada, who are already in distress due to Bank loans and the wait for relief from the government.
Hailstorm during this time of the years is really ruining the crops in Maharashtra and some remedial measures will have to be followed from the next year onwards. It is a matter of time that we should find a remedy and avoid heavy loss of crops.
Calicut Ramani
(The views expressed by the author in the article are his/her own.)
