Storm damages crops

The Uttarakhand government on Tuesday said it was assessing the damage to litchi, mango and other crops after thunderstorms hit Dehra Dun and other parts of the hill state last night.

Preliminary reports said the storm, accompanied by showers, caused extensive damage to litchi, mango and wheat crops in several areas.

“Our officials are visiting various orchards and fields to take first hand information,” said state agriculture minister Trivendra Singh Rawat .

Meanwhile, a central team would survey the drought-affected areas of the hill state shortly. The situation was grimmer in the hilly region, which received scanty rainfall during the past six months.

The long-dry spell has badly affected wheat and other crops. Reports from districts like Chamoli, Tehri and Rudraprayag have already indicated that the situation did not improve, said Subhash Kumar, principal secretary.

The state is now chalking out an emergency plan to provide immediate relief to farmers. Chief minister BC Khanduri has also instructed commissioners of both Garhwal and Kumaon regions as well as district magistrates to workout a relief plan in the affected areas.