Rs 1 cr worth banana cultivation in Mettupalayam damaged

: Nearly one lakh banana plants estimated to be worth between Rs one crore to Rs 1.5 crore, have been destroyed in heavy rains and strong winds in Mettupalayam and surrounding areas in the district.
Since banana of various types were ready for harvest,the loss was estimated at Rs one crore to rs.1.5 crore, growers said.
The sudden rains and hail storm in some parts of Sirumugai, Karamadai, Mettupalayam and Oomapalayam last night caught farmers unawares.
Under the impact of cross winds, some roadside trees were uprooted, snapping live wires, leading to darkness in a few areas, police said.
With the assistance of fire and rescue personnel and Electricity Board personnel, water from low lying areas was pumped out and power restored, they said.