Guntur Collector inspects cyclone-hit paddy fields, assures farmers of support

Guntur District Collector C.M. Saikanth Varma inspecting cyclone-affected paddy fields in Tenali mandal on Thursday. | Photo Credit: T. VIJAYA KUMAR

Guntur District Collector C.M. Saikanth Varma on Thursday inspected cyclone-affected paddy fields in Somasundarapalem and Kancharapalem villages of Tenali mandal and directed officials to take immediate measures to protect crops damaged by heavy rain and strong winds due to the impact of Cyclone Arnab.

The Collector paid heed to farmers concerns over paddy crops lodging due to adverse weather conditions. Farmers expressed apprehension that prolonged rainfall and strong winds could further damage the crops and affect grain quality and yields.

After inspecting the fields, Mr. Varma instructed agricultural officials to consult experts and provide farmers with immediate technical guidance. He directed officials to ensure that excess water was drained from fields and that no water stagnated in agricultural lands.

Mandal agricultural officers were asked to visit fields across the district, assess crop conditions and extend continuous support to farmers. He also ordered officials to submit reports wherever crop losses had occurred.

Chief agricultural scientists Dr. Ch. Sujani Rao, Dr. M. Ratnam and Dr. N. Sambasiva Rao advised farmers to clear drainage channels, avoid forcibly lifting lodged plants and postpone fertiliser application in waterlogged fields.

Scientists’ recommendations

The scientists recommended monitoring blast, sheath blight, bacterial leaf blight, stem borers and leaf-folders. Pesticides and fungicides should be applied only when pest or disease incidence is confirmed, following Agriculture Department recommendations. Spraying should be avoided during rainfall and strong winds.

The scientists also stressed careful irrigation and harvesting plans to prevent grain germination and quality deterioration.

Published - October 29, 2026 08:24 pm IST