Nepal: Maize crops in Ramechhap district affected due to armyworm outbreak
Farmers in Ramechhap district are facing severe crop damage due to an armyworm infestation affecting maize fields. The pests initially target leaves, progressing to cobs, leading to improper silk and husk formation. The infestation spans areas including Manthali, Ramechhap, Likhu Tamakoshi, Gokulganga, and Khandadevi. Local authorities are aware of the issue and are working on control measures, though challenges persist.
Ramechhap: Farmers across Ramechhap district are alarmed as an armyworm infestation continues to destroy large sections of their maize fields, reports Khabarhub.com.
The invasive pests, which first attack the leaves, eventually target the cobs. In many cases, the silks and husks fail to form properly, and the leaves are left shredded. The damage has raised fears among farmers that they could lose their entire harvest if the outbreak is not brought under control soon.
The infestation has spread across multiple areas, including Manthali Municipality, Ramechhap Municipality, Likhu Tamakoshi, Gokulganga, and Khandadevi Rural Municipality.
“If we don’t get this under control soon, our whole crop will be gone,” said Sarita Dhungel, a farmer from Ward 7 of Manthali Municipality.
Krishna Bhujel, head of the Agriculture Development Branch of the municipality, confirmed the damage caused by the armyworms.
“We’re aware of the problem and efforts are underway to contain it,” he said. “But there are still many difficulties in managing the situation effectively.”
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Source : ChiniMandi
