Rainfall in Dadeldhura brings relief for winter crop planting

Dadeldhura: Despite the withdrawal of the monsoon, Dadeldhura district headquarters and surrounding areas have received rainfall, providing a boost for farmers preparing for winter crops.

Sporadic rains began on Monday afternoon, followed by heavy rainfall at night, easing cultivation activities. Shyam Sunar, Head of the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology's Climate Field Office in Dadeldhura, reported that rain continued on Tuesday, with Khalanga, the district headquarters, recording 45 mm. Sunar added that cumulative rainfall could reach up to 150 mm by Friday afternoon due to the influence of westerly winds, which are expected to continue until noon on Friday. The westerly winds are anticipated to leave Bajura and Darchula districts later.

The rainfall has particularly benefited Dadeldhura, which had experienced limited precipitation since the first week of Asoj. Narendra Paneru, head of the Krishi Gyan Kendra Dadeldhura, noted that while heavy rain during potato planting can cause rot, the recent rainfall has made it easier for farmers to plant potatoes and bring in rice crops. However, he cautioned that not all farmers have completed potato planting yet.

Potato cultivation in Dadeldhura typically continues throughout Asoj and into the first week of Kartik. Paneru emphasized that while the recent rain has slightly delayed the planting of ripe rice, pulses, and potatoes, it has ultimately provided relief for winter crop cultivation.