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Chennai, Nov 5 (IANS) Samba paddy cultivation in around 500 acres in several villages of Thiruverumbur block in Tamil Nadu’s Tiruchi district has dried up, causing grave concern among local farmers. Initial assessments by agriculture experts indicate that polluted irrigation water may be the cause, leading to a possible investigation by the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB).
According to agriculture department officials, samba cultivation is currently going on in major paddy blocks of Tiruchi district, which include Lalgudi, Mannachanallur, Anthanallur, Thiruverumbur, Manikandam, Musiri, Thottiyam, Thuraiyur and Pullambadi.
Farmers in these areas generally cultivate high-yielding varieties like TRY-3, CO(R) 50, and CR 1009 recommended by Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU). While most of the farmers have chosen TRY-3 and CO(R) 50, the people of Thiruverumbur have preferred CR 1009, which is known for its resistance to common pests and diseases like leaf folder, stem borer, blast and sheath rot.
However, despite the absence of insect attacks, large parts of CR 1009 have suffered massive drying out – an unusual phenomenon that experts believe is linked to water pollution.
A senior agriculture department official said the symptoms observed in the affected fields point to chemical contamination in irrigation sources. “Polluted water could be the reason for the drying of the crop. However, physical factors cannot be ruled out,” the official said.
Experts from Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Sirugamani, who inspected the affected areas at Pazhanganakudy on Saturday, are preparing a detailed report on the possible causes and possible remedial measures.
“The team found water drying up in around 50 acres of samba fields and is analyzing soil and water samples,” the official said.
A meeting with farmers has been scheduled for Monday to discuss the findings and possible recovery steps. Vayalur N., treasurer of farmers wing of Tamil Nadu Congress (TMC). Rajendran said the problem arose from potential pollution of irrigation channels.
“Authorities must identify the source of polluted water entering the supply network and take immediate action to prevent further damage,” he urged. Farmers have sought immediate intervention from agriculture and pollution control officials to prevent recurrence of such losses.
–IANS
AL/DPB