Rain, Gusty Winds Ravage Crops, Leave North AP Farmers In Distress

Visakhapatnam: Unexpected rains on Tuesday and Wednesday, accompanied by strong gusty winds, left horticultural farmers in North Andhra Pradesh distressed and sleepless as they watched their produce being destroyed.

After enjoying sunny and favourable weather, the sudden shift wreaked havoc on crops, damaging mangoes, bananas and other horticultural produce, particularly due to strong winds that caused premature fruit drops. Farmers expressed grief as large quantities of mangoes and banana trees lay scattered on the ground, resulting in substantial financial losses.

According to Pinninti Venkata Bhanoji Naidu, the Sarpanch of Ranastalam Panchayat, nearly 33 per cent of banana cultivation across 1,200 acres in Ranastalam mandal, Srikakulam, has been affected. Rabi grains were washed away, and fields turned into waterlogged areas.

The damage also extended to the electricity infrastructure, with toppled electric poles disrupting power supply in several villages. The intense two-hour downpour on Wednesday, accompanied by thunder and lightning, triggered flash floods in low-lying areas, worsening the situation.

Meanwhile, mango and banana farmers in Vizianagaram — known for premium mango varieties such as Banginapalli, Suvarnarekha, and Panukulu — were among the worst affected. The storm knocked down mangoes prematurely, disrupting supply and likely leading to market shortages.

Farmers struggling with losses are now disappointed over compensation policies. A.V.S.V. Jamadagni, district horticultural officer for Vizianagaram, told Deccan Chronicle that the government would not compensate farmers for fallen fruits, offering financial aid only if a tree is completely uprooted. However, reports indicate that no trees were uprooted in the region, leaving affected farmers without relief.

In the combined Visakhapatnam district, banana plantations also suffered losses. Vizag horticultural officer K.S.N. Reddy stated that compensation would be granted only if at least 33 per cent of banana trees per acre are damaged, leaving many farmers uncertain about their financial recovery. Meanwhile, ASR district cashew farmers stated that the untimely rains had helped their crops.

Following the horticultural crop damage, fruit traders predict a spike in prices, particularly for mangoes and bananas. With fewer supplies reaching the markets, consumers are likely to face higher prices in the coming weeks — adding another layer of concern for both farmers and buyers.