Heavy Rains Submerge Thousands of Hectares of Paddy in Shahapur

Farmers demand “wet drought” declaration as crops face severe damage.

Relentless rainfall in Shahapur taluka has created a drought-like situation of a different kind, with thousands of hectares of paddy fields submerged under water. Farmers fear that the standing crop, now at the grain formation stage, could be completely ruined if the rains continue without a break.

This year, nearly 3,000 hectares have been planted with paddy, nagli, and vari. However, continuous heavy rain since May 7 has led to overflowing rivers, streams, and farmlands. Compared to last year’s poor monsoon, which destroyed half the paddy crop, this year’s excessive rainfall has brought an opposite crisis. While the crop is in bloom, waterlogging threatens to wash away the harvest.

Rainfall figures show a sharp rise: the Bhatsa dam region received 3,967 mm this year against 2,017 mm last year. Shahapur has already recorded 3,460 mm compared to 2,012 mm last year. Farmers are demanding that the government declare a “wet drought” and provide urgent relief.

Adding to their woes, pest attacks such as stem borers and “baglya” disease have spread widely. Unable to apply fertilizers due to constant rains, farmers are facing mounting financial stress. Many urge the government to supply free pesticides immediately.