Wed Dec 03 12:09:15 UTC 2025: Summary:
Heavy rainfall from the northeast monsoon and Cyclone Ditwah has caused widespread flooding in Nagapattinam district, submerging a significant portion of paddy fields. The district administration has formed flood-monitoring committees and is assessing crop damage. Farmers are advised to drain excess water, avoid applying fertilizers and chemicals during the wet spell, and monitor for pests and diseases. Specific recommendations are provided for addressing nutrient deficiencies and managing horticultural crops. Farmers are urged to promptly report fresh damage to local agricultural officials for technical guidance.
News Article:
Nagapattinam Paddy Fields Submerged as Cyclone Ditwah and Monsoon Rains Batter District
NAGAPATTINAM, December 3, 2025 – Heavy rainfall brought on by the northeast monsoon and exacerbated by Cyclone Ditwah has resulted in significant flooding of paddy fields across Nagapattinam district, according to Collector P. Akash.
In a press release issued today, Akash revealed that preliminary reports indicate 22,821.98 hectares of the 51,592.858 hectares under samba and thaladi cultivation have been submerged. In response to the crisis, district and taluk-level flood-monitoring committees have been established, following directives from the Chief Minister.
Joint teams of Agriculture and Revenue Department officials are currently assessing the damage. Compensation will be recommended where crop damage exceeds 33%, adhering to government regulations.
The Collector has also issued a crop management advisory, urging farmers to drain excess water from their fields immediately by clearing drainage channels. Farmers are advised to refrain from applying fertilizers, pesticides, and weedicides during the ongoing wet spell, focusing instead on closely monitoring crops for pests and diseases.
Specific recommendations include spraying a urea and zinc sulphate solution for yellowing crops experiencing nutrient deficiencies. Farmers are also advised to apply 25% additional nitrogen and potash to flood-affected crops, as advised by field officers. Furthermore, farmers are encouraged to maintain clean field bunds, promote green manure crops, and use chemical fertilizers strictly according to recommended doses.
With the northeast monsoon expected to continue until the end of December, Akash urged farmers to promptly report any new damage to local Agriculture officials for technical guidance.
For horticultural crops, farmers are advised to earth up around plants and trees, providing staking and propping as needed. Owners of polyhouses, shade-net houses, and solar pump systems are reminded to secure their structures and protect panels and electric fencing during intense weather conditions.
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