KATHMANDU: Heavy rainfall between Sept. 24 and 27 has caused significant damage to paddy crops across the country. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Environment, 229.33 hectares of paddy fields were affected, leading to a reduction of approximately 438 metric tons in production.
Dr. Maniratna Aryal, senior agricultural economist and information officer at the ministry, stated that the decline in paddy production has resulted in an economic loss of Rs 20.17 million. Ministry data indicates that paddy crops accounted for 57.17 percent of the total agricultural losses recorded during this period.
The most severe impact was observed in the Lumbini Province, specifically in Banke and Dang districts. In these areas, 205.07 hectares of crops were damaged, resulting in a production loss of 359.80 metric tons and an economic impact of Rs 15.46 million. In Gandaki Province, including Gorkha, Tanahun, Baglung and Syangja, 16.78 hectares of land suffered damages totaling Rs 4.39 million. Koshi Province recorded a loss of Rs 320,000 across 2.14 hectares.
Beyond paddy, the ministry’s data shows damage to other crops as well. Losses were recorded at 19.60 percent for maize, 10.40 percent for vegetables, 7.85 percent for fruits, 4.59 percent for cardamom, 0.26 percent for millet and 0.13 percent for flowers.
