SWABI: Frequent rains have delayed wheat harvest and left the standing crop damaged in several areas of the district.

In a chat with this correspondent, the farmers said that the wheat crop cultivated on a vast area was now ready for harvest, but rains had been creating difficulties for them and the delay could result in big losses for them.

The recent spell of rain, which started two days ago, continued on Saturday. The farmers said that more rains could delay the harvest and might further affect the crop yield.

They said that their expenditures for the entire year were linked with the wheat crop and tobacco production.

“The farmers could face losses of millions if rain continues to fall for the next few days. They have also prayed for stoppage of rains,” said Sherin Zaman of Maneri Bala village.

Ahmad Ali of proper Swabi region said that wheat crop was ready for harvest.

When contacted, Jabeen Qamar, an agricultural expert who works with a multinational company, said that rains would have bad impact on the standing wheat crop.

He said that before starting harvest the farmers should know about the weather conditions.

Published in Dawn, April 20th, 2020