Heat Wave Crisis: Plantation Sector Urges Long-Term Relief Package

Farmers in the plantation sector are facing a dire situation due to the ongoing heatwave. The scorching temperatures have led to a significant decline in crop production, with key crops like cardamom, tea, coffee, rubber, and black pepper seeing reductions ranging from 25% to 50%. Recognizing the severity of the crisis, plantation owners are seeking long-term support packages from the government to mitigate the impact.

The extreme heat has emerged as a major challenge for farmers, impacting both the yield and quality of crops. This phenomenon is expected to persist in the coming years, posing a long-term threat to the plantation sector. The depletion of water sources, such as wells and ponds used for irrigation, has worsened the situation, particularly for cardamom cultivation.

Moreover, certain areas have imposed restrictions on the use of pesticides, further complicating matters for farmers. Without adequate rainfall in the near future, the situation is likely to escalate, exacerbating the challenges faced by the plantation sector.

In response to these difficulties, various organizations representing plantation owners are contemplating reaching out to the government for assistance. They are advocating for comprehensive relief packages that address the immediate needs of farmers while also providing long-term solutions to safeguard the future of the plantation sector.