lack of adequate rainfalls has increased the woes of farmers in Balangir district.
According to agriculture office sources, shortfall in rains has affected agricultural operations in 60 gram panchyats in Muribahal, Bongomonda, parts of Saintala and Agalpur blocks.
The average rainfall of Balangir district for the month of July is 360 mm. So far 240mm rainfall has been recorded in the district this year. In Muribahal block, only 111mm rains, in Bongomonda block, 147mm rains, in Saintala 170 mm rains, and in Titilagarh 180 mm rains have been recorded. This has affected crucial agricultural operations in these areas. Unless there is rainfall within 5-7 days, the situation may worsen.