Assam: Hailstorm in Dhemaji Destroys 30 Bighas of Crops, Farmers Face Rs 12.5 Lakh Loss

DHEMAJI: A severe hailstorm caused significant damage in the Nilakh Tarani Pather region of Dhemaji district, Assam, on February 24. The storm left farmers devastated as their crops were destroyed. The unexpected weather brought heavy rain and strong winds, flattening watermelon and king chili (Bhoot Jolokia) crops across 30 bighas of land.

The storm nearly caused total devastation to the crops, leaving farmers with nothing to harvest. As per reports, watermelons were cultivated on 16 bighas of land, while the remaining 14 bighas were dedicated to king chili. These crops were at a critical stage of growth, resulting in an estimated monetary loss of around Rs 12.5 lakh, as the produce was expected to fetch excellent prices in the market.

The affected farmers—Nitul Sakai, Dilip Bhorolua, Premdhar Baruah, Tapoka Munda, Bhovan Haloi, Raju Bhajani, Anita, Bhakteshwar Sonowal, and Pinku Baruah—had heavily invested in seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation systems, often borrowing money from local shops, friends, and relatives.

Following the calamity, the Area Agriculture Development Officer (ADO) visited the affected fields to assess the extent of the damage. He assured the farmers that their names would be recommended for compensation under government schemes. Local farmer organizations and community leaders have highlighted the need for long-term crop insurance policies to protect farmers from similar natural disasters in the future.

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