Jalpaiguri, 12th November: A severe hailstorm lasting around half an hour on Wednesday afternoon caused damage across several parts of Jalpaiguri district, raising concerns over losses to houses and agricultural crops. Rajganj block was among the worst-affected areas, where the intensity of the hailstorm was particularly high.
Strong winds accompanied by heavy hail began suddenly at around 5 PM. Hailstorms were reported from several areas, including Jalpaiguri Sadar, Rajganj and Maynaguri. In Rajganj, hailstones damaged the tin roofs of several houses, leaving holes in them. Small trees were also uprooted or broken due to strong winds.
The impact on agriculture has left farmers worried. Parameshwar Roy, a farmer from Nathua Char in Rajganj, said he had cultivated potatoes on 11 bighas of land. However, continuous rainfall since the planting of potatoes has affected their sprouting, and he fears that the crop may rot underground. He said he had already invested around ₹2 lakh in potato cultivation.
The hailstorm and strong winds also damaged chilli plants, adding to the agricultural losses.
The sudden spell of severe hailstorm has raised concerns over damage to houses and agricultural land across several parts of Jalpaiguri and Rajganj. With the agricultural season still in its early stages, the weather disturbance has left farmers and residents worried.
