Jaisalmer: Intense dust storms and cold winds on Sunday caused severe damage to cumin and psyllium crops in Jaisalmer, particularly in the Fatehgarh and Ramgarh areas. The sudden weather changes buried crops under sand in several villages, affecting up to 50 percent of the district's Rabi harvest.
Farmers in rural areas faced powerful storms throughout the day, with strong winds and dust clouds causing significant crop destruction. The Ramgarh region was particularly hit hard, as standing crops near canal areas were completely covered by sand, leaving farmers distressed.
The cold intensified across Jaisalmer city and surrounding regions, with residents resorting to winter clothing on Monday. Despite afternoon sunshine, sharp winds kept temperatures low across both Sunday and Monday, disrupting daily life.
Agricultural meteorologist Atul Galav linked the storm to cyclonic conditions, noting wind speeds of 30 km/h. He said insufficient cold earlier in the season had already forced cumin replanting, and the current weather has further endangered crops. While increased cold benefits Rabi crops, ongoing strong winds pose a significant threat. In the Fatehgarh subdivision, farmers reported extensive damage to cumin and psyllium crops. Former sarpanch Ramdan Ratnu highlighted the prolonged struggles faced by farmers due to natural disasters, minimal subsidies, and delayed compensation for previous rainfall damage.
Rabi crop cultivation has already been plagued by unsuitable weather, electricity shortages, and water supply issues. Farmers have called for urgent govt intervention to expedite relief measures and compensation distribution.