Severe Storm Alert in Chhattisgarh Until May 6: 500 Acres of Fruit Crops Destroyed, ₹70–80 Lakh Loss Estimated

Strong Winds, Hailstorms Wreak Havoc Across Multiple Districts; Power Supply Disrupted, Agricultural Sector Suffers Heavy Blow

RAIPUR, India – The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a severe weather warning across Chhattisgarh, with forecasts indicating strong winds at speeds of 50–60 km/h and thunderstorms accompanied by hail and rain until May 6. The state is grappling with the aftermath of the latest wave of Western Disturbances, which have triggered widespread destruction, especially in the agricultural sector.

Storms Batter Raipur, Durg-Bhilai, Bemetara, and Balod

Over the past 24 hours, intense thunderstorms swept through several districts including Raipur, Durg-Bhilai, Bemetara, and Balod, causing significant infrastructure damage. Electricity poles and wires were downed, leaving parts of the state without power. Restoration efforts are ongoing, with 80% of supply resumed by Friday evening, and crews working overnight to address remaining outages.

The inclement weather also led to a temperature drop of 4–5°C, providing temporary relief from the heat but causing severe harm to crops in their final growth stages.

500 Acres of Banana, Papaya, and Sapodilla Crops Destroyed

One of the hardest-hit areas was Dhamdha in Durg district, where 500 acres of fruit crops, including banana, papaya, mango, and sapodilla (chikoo), were destroyed. These farms, operated under JS Farm’s organic initiative, were nearing harvest when the storm struck.

Farmer Rajesh Poonia, speaking from Dhaurabhatha village, estimated the total loss at ₹70–80 lakh, citing the complete destruction of ready-to-harvest fruits. The storm also severely impacted mango crops, crucial to the region’s summer pickle production, as premature fruit drops occurred due to heavy winds and hail.

Widespread Impact on Rabi Crops, Vegetables, and Power Grid

The IMD warns that similar conditions will persist over the next three days, likely affecting more areas across Chhattisgarh. Key developments include:

• Crops: Large hailstones damaged wheat, paddy, and other Rabi crops. Farmers are advised to file claims under the Crop Insurance Scheme.

• Vegetables: Seasonal greens and summer vegetables were flattened by strong winds and hailstorms, with total crop loss reported in multiple villages.

• Fruit Production: Mangoes, particularly those used for pickle-making, were dislodged in bulk, leading to premature spoilage.

• Infrastructure: Power distribution systems suffered heavily, especially in semi-urban and rural belts, disrupting daily life and farm operations.

Authorities Urge Caution, Farmers Advised to Report Losses

With more storms forecasted through May 6, state authorities are urging farmers and residents to remain alert and take preventive measures. Damage assessments are underway, and compensation procedures under crop insurance are being activated to assist affected cultivators.