Unseasonal rains, hailstorms affect wheat crop

Farmers fear yield losses amid gusty winds and ongoing showers

SARGODHA:

Unseasonal rains, accompanied by hail and gusty winds, have struck parts of central Punjab, including Sargodha, flattening standing wheat crops at a critical stage and raising concerns among farmers, agricultural experts, and market stakeholders over potential yield losses and grain quality deterioration.

A fresh spell of rain, driven by a strong westerly weather system, is expected to continue across Punjab until mid-April, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department.

Farmers report that hailstones and gusty winds have made harvesting difficult and damaged grain quality. "Our crop was ready for harvest within days, but the rain and hail have laid it flat. Now we fear losses in both quantity and quality," said Zahoor Qureshi, a farmer from Chak No 153-NB. He said that agriculture experts explain that the overall impact would depend on the duration and intensity of the ongoing weather spell.

A short spell of rain may not largely reduce total production, but prolonged wet conditions could enhance losses. Although light rain during late March may sometimes benefit wheat by improving grain filling, excessive moisture combined with strong winds can prove destructive, he added.

The flattened crops become difficult to harvest mechanically and are more prone to fungal diseases and discoloration, he added.

Stakeholders in the agriculture supply chain including flour millers and grain traders also expressed concern.

A local grain market dealer, Mudassar Hayat, said that damaged wheat fetches lower prices due to shriveled grains and reduced weight. "If the rain continues, it will not only affect farmers but also the entire supply chain, including flour prices in the coming months," he added.