Arunachal experiences drought-like situation

Itanagar, Aug 18 (UNI) With no rainfall since the last couple of months, Arunachal Pradesh is reeling under a drought like situation, as the mercury level rose to four to seven degree above normal.

Though there were no reported deaths in any parts of the state, the possibility of outbreak of an epidemic looms large.

Jairampur and Manmao circles under Changlang district were the worst affected areas in the state. The farmers were concerned as how to contain the inevitable crop loss, official sources said here today.

Although not technically measured, the area approximately recorded 50 per cent less rainfall in this monsoon resulting in huge crop loss. Every means of artificial irrigation like using of irrigation channel and other natural sources have been tried out to meet the requirement, but the increasing demand of water in the wet rice cultivation is provoking the problems.

Scanty rainfall during May and June to some extent had helped the farmers sow the seedlings, but due to insufficient rain the farmers are unable to transplant the seedling.

Almost all Wet Rice Cultivation (WRCs) and Jhum fields have developed cracks and there was certain possibility that even if there was rainfall for a couple of days, no scope for further plantation could be done since the period for the same is over. The lack of rain has not only affected the paddy farmers but small tea growers of these circles also.

Jairampur Extra-Assistant Commissioner (EAC) M Roy has requested the state government to declare both Jairampur and Manmao as drought affected areas in view of the prevailing situation and to provide immediate relief to the farmers, sources added.

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