Torrential rains accompanied by a powerful nor’wester have caused widespread devastation in Barkathal under the Simna constituency of Tripura, submerging vast stretches of agricultural land and leaving farmers grappling with heavy losses. Nearly seven kani of paddy fields have been washed away, turning once-fertile farmland into a waterlogged expanse that now resembles a flowing river.
The sudden spell of extreme weather has dealt a severe blow to local cultivators, many of whom depend entirely on seasonal crops for their livelihood. With standing crops destroyed and fields inundated, uncertainty looms large over the upcoming agricultural cycle. Farmers fear that the damage may not only affect current yields but also disrupt future sowing if water stagnation persists.
On Thursday, Minister of State for Industries and Commerce Brishaketu Debbarma, who represents the Simna constituency, visited the affected areas to assess the extent of the damage. He was accompanied by officials from the Water Resources Department and interacted with local farmers to understand their concerns firsthand.
Addressing the media after the inspection, Debbarma acknowledged the gravity of the situation. He stated that excessive rainfall had destroyed close to seven kani of farmland and emphasized the urgent need for effective water management measures. “We are in discussions with the concerned department to ensure proper drainage and restore normal water flow in the area. However, there is uncertainty regarding the intensity of the upcoming monsoon,” he said.
Local farmers expressed deep distress, pointing out that they were already battling rising input costs and erratic weather patterns. The latest damage has pushed many to the brink, raising fears of financial instability and mounting debts.
Residents of Barkathal have urged the administration to step in with immediate relief measures, including compensation for crop losses and assistance for restoring farmland. They warned that without timely intervention, the situation could worsen significantly during the monsoon season, further endangering livelihoods and food security in the region.
