Bhagalpur: Paddy crops planted across nearly 67 acres at the BAC Farm of Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour, have been completely submerged due to the rising water level of the Ganga River.
The flood-affected area includes the Rice Area along with L-Block, M-Block, N-Block, K-Block and J-Block. A total of 17 different varieties of paddy had been planted across these fields.
Breeder Seed Production Programme Seriously Affected
Out of the total 67 acres under paddy cultivation, crops had been planted on nearly 47.85 acres for breeder seed production. The flooding has seriously affected this important seed production programme.
In addition, the university’s Model Bhitthi Farm, spread over nearly 10 acres, has also been submerged by floodwater.
Vice-Chancellor Inspects Flood-Affected Fields
To assess the situation, the Vice-Chancellor of Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, inspected the flood-affected fields along with all university directors, concerned scientists and officials.
During the inspection, detailed discussions were held on the extent of waterlogging, its possible impact on the paddy crop and measures to prevent similar problems in the future.
The Vice-Chancellor suggested reviewing the existing paddy varieties and selecting varieties better suited to flood conditions. He also recommended making changes in varieties wherever necessary to reduce crop losses caused by floods in the future.
Focus on Early Nursery and Transplanting
Keeping in mind the possible period of rising water levels in the Ganga, the Vice-Chancellor asked scientists to explore the possibility of completing paddy nursery preparation and transplantation earlier.
The objective is to ensure that crops reach a comparatively safer stage before the arrival of floodwater.
Concern was also expressed over the problem of water remaining in the farm area for an extended period. The Vice-Chancellor suggested preparing a detailed technical proposal for the quick drainage of floodwater from the farm and for controlling the uncontrolled entry of Ganga floodwater into the agricultural fields.
He also asked the concerned scientists and officials to make a proper assessment of the crop and breeder seed production programme affected by the current flood.
The university has been advised to prepare both immediate and long-term action plans to address the impact of the present flooding and reduce crop losses in the future.
