Storms and heavy rain destroy crops just before harvest
Summary
Heavy rain and strong winds have damaged paddy, fruits and vegetables across western Nepal just as farmers were preparing to harvest. Local governments in Kailali, Bardiya, Salyan and Dang are assessing losses as farmers report major income and food-security setbacks.
Key Points
- Heavy rain and strong winds over the past two weeks have damaged crops across western Nepal, especially paddy ready for harvest in the Tarai and fruit and vegetables in the hills.
- Kailali farmers reported flooded fields and sprouting harvested paddy, with officials warning district output could fall by 5 to 7 percent.
- Bardiya, Salyan and Dang have also suffered widespread crop losses, with some local governments estimating damages worth tens of millions of rupees.
- Farmers say repeated flooding and storms are becoming a recurring problem and are calling for compensation, insurance and long-term solutions.
