Over 200 acres of paddy fields develop cracks as drought hits Loitang Chaprou and Ngakra paddy fields in Sekmai Constituency

Farmers of Loitang Chaprou and Ngakra paddy fields in Sekmai constituency are wary over the prevailing dry condition of paddy fields, as cracks are visible in over 200 acres of paddyland. Drawing the attention of relevant departments for help, farmers expressed worry over a possible low yield of rice grains this year.

Speaking to journalists today, Secretary of Lourok Committee Loitang Khunou Kharibam Ingoba said most of the farmers do not own paddyland, hence they cultivate for paddy land owners. He said farmers are also facing the added pressure of giving back the agreed share of rice grains to the land owners. He said the relevant departments could have built an irrigation dam at Sahi Lok, located behind Chirang village, as this could facilitate irrigation of paddy fields at Senjam Chirang, Phumlou, Khurkhul, Koutruk, Loitang, Leikingthabi, Loitang Khunou and Loitang Khullen. Ingoba also said that the relevant departments’ efforts to pump water have failed in the area as the pumps had been stationed at inappropriate spots.

Highlighting the plights facing the farmers who have thrown their hands in the air over the situation, he appealed to the government and the relevant departments to inspect the situation and take necessary measures to help the distressed farmers.