Heavy rainfall has wreaked havoc in the agricultural regions of Gudalur, Kampam, Uthamapalayam, and Chinnamanur in Tamil Nadu’s Theni district over the past two days. The downpour has particularly impacted grape farmers in Kambam, where grapevines, prepared for harvest, have been uprooted in Kamayagoundanpatti.
Farmers in Kamayagoundanpatti have expressed concerns about the excessive moisture in the soil due to continuous heavy rain. This has weakened the grip of grapevines, leading to the collapse of one-acre vineyards and substantial losses for farmers. The affected farmers are now urging for additional support beyond government flood relief funds to aid grape farmers in coping with the aftermath of the heavy rainfall.
The region, known for two-phase paddy cultivation, is a vital agricultural district, linking the Tamil Nadu and Kerala border. With a primary reliance on agriculture, the Theni district cultivates crops such as rice, coconut, grapes, and bananas on a large scale. The recent heavy rains have raised fears among grape farmers, threatening returns on their substantial investments amounting to lakhs of rupees.
The Mullai Periyar Dam plays a vital role in sustaining agriculture in the region. Across the Kambam valley area to Palanisettipatti, approximately 14,707 acres of paddy undergo two-phase cultivation each year. Annually, on June 1, water is released from the Mullai Periyar Dam to support agriculture in the Kampam Pallathaku region, impacting the dam’s water supply and yield.
Excessive rain during the dormant season poses risks to grapevines, as the waterlogged soil may harm roots, causing damage, rot, and hindering nutrient absorption. This can impact the vine’s growth in the subsequent season, potentially resulting in lower yields and poor fruit quality. Conversely, abundant rain during the growing season can lead to rapid vine growth and increased canopy density, potentially causing shading of grape clusters and fostering fungal diseases.
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