Heavy rains have wreaked havoc in Washim district, causing large-scale agricultural destruction, especially in the Pimpri area, where soybean crops—referred to as Vidarbha's "yellow gold"—have suffered massive losses. Despite the severity of the damage, farmers allege that no government officials have visited the affected areas even after 24 hours.
Washim has been battered by continuous rainfall, leading to flooded fields and waterlogging. In Pimpri, the situation is particularly grim, with entire fields submerged, washing away the recently sown soybean and tur (pigeon pea) crops. Farmers, overwhelmed by the loss, staged a protest standing knee-deep in waterlogged farms, demanding immediate intervention.
“The grass and crops we had nurtured with hope are gone. No officer has come to see our plight,” said one of the protesting farmers. The absence of administrative response has led to growing frustration and desperation among the farming community.
In Vidarbha, soybean holds significant economic importance. The current flood situation has not only ruined standing crops but also shattered the morale of farmers, many of whom were already grappling with financial challenges.
The farmers have demanded a prompt Panchnama (damage assessment) and maximum compensation. They have also issued a stern warning: if the administration fails to take swift action and provide relief, they will resort to intensified protests—and some have even threatened to commit suicide if aid is not provided.
This natural calamity and the delayed administrative response have once again highlighted the fragile state of farmer support systems in Maharashtra. As the crisis deepens, the ball is now in the administration’s court to prevent further tragedy.