SAMBALPUR: Erratic and deficit rains have led to drought-like situation in non-irrigated pockets of Balangir, Boudh, Sonepur, Nuapada, Bargarh and Sambalpur districts. With the State Government yet to initiate any steps, the farmers are left devastated.
While some farmers have unleashed cattle on their land, many are planning to migrate in search of greener pasture. The rest have resigned themselves to their fate.
In Sambalpur district, areas not covered under Hirakud Canal System are also facing drought-like situation. Sambalpur district has registered 391.58 mm and 256.54 mm rainfall in July and August against the normal 429.5 mm and 442.4 mm rainfall respectively.
Similarly, in Bargarh district, where Attabira, Bargarh and Bheden blocks are irrigated by Hirakud Dam Canal System, the other eight blocks are facing drought. The district has received 263 mm and 244.83 mm rains against normal rainfall of 397.2 mm and 374.4 mm in July and August respectively.
Paschim Odisha Krushak Sangathan Samanwaya Samiti (POKSSS) spokesperson Saroj said the State Government should take into consideration eye estimate and deficit rainfall and declare drought immediately. He said the State Government should also initiate payment of compensation to the drought-hit farmers.
Contacted, DDA, Sambalpur, Pradosh Kumar Samal said while crop cutting is done in September in the upland, in middle and low land, it is undertaken in November.He said the situation is under control in Sambalpur and if it does not rain in September, crop will be affected.