Further details are emerging in the damages caused by the hailstorm on 16th of March in Madhya Pradesh. According to a survey conducted by state revenue department of Madhya Pradesh government, crops in about 2,44,615 hectares of land in 3,190 villages of 31 districts were affected by rain, thunder-squalls and hailstorms that occurred between 14th to 16th of March.
Survey reveals that at least 32 people and 294 livestock died in these hailstorms that occurred in five districts – Vidisha, Shajapur, Seoni, Guna and Rajgarh. Vidisha that was most affected by the hailstom lost Rs. 302 crores of crops. Rajgarh lost Rs 213.61 crores. Seoni Rs 68.16 crores, Guna Rs. 46.01 crores of rabi crops, mainly wheat and grams.
These areas were experiencing a cyclonic circulation that prevailed here from 14th to 16th March as they received heavy rain, thunder-squalls and hailstorms. Vidisha is also known for the production of one of the best quality wheat grains in the country.
photograph by Jeremy Bolwell
