TIRUPATI: Heavy rains have damaged tomato crops across Somala, Sodam, Punganur, Chowdepalli and nearby mandals in Chittoor district.Farmers are distressed, as tomatoes spread over hundreds of acres nearing harvest have wilted or rotted due to continuous rains over the past few days. They had planted their crop in April and May, hoping to harvest them by July end. However, the sudden spell of rain has not only delayed the harvest but also triggered heavy pest infestations and fungal diseases. Plants are shedding leaves and fruits have developed cracks, black spots and signs of decay, making them unsuitable for sale in the market. In several areas, farmers have begun abandoning the damaged crop, unable to recover even the basic cost of cultivation. “We spent nearly ₹1.32 lakh per acre this season with hopes of a good return. But before we could begin harvesting, rains ruined everything. Fruits are rotting in the fields,” said S. Ramakrishna, a farmer from Somala. Market prices had recently climbed to ₹600 per 15 kg box due to supply shortages. The rain-hit tomatoes are fetching less than ₹100 per box. Transporting the produce to local markets like Madanapalle, Punganur and Palamaner costs about ₹20 per box. After deducting the commission, many farmers are left with nothing. Further, rains have disrupted flowering and fruit formation in the standing crop, casting uncertainty over future yields. Farmers have urged the Horticulture department to take note of the situation and declare the affected mandals as crop loss zones. “Prices had finally turned favourable after months of struggle. But these rains have washed away our hopes. No one from the government has even come to inspect our fields. If we don’t receive compensation, we may not continue farming,” said M. Lakshmamma, another farmer. Farmers are demanding immediate financial assistance to help them recover and prepare for the next cropping season. But there has been no official response yet on compensation or relief.
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