Ministers visit grape farms in Nashik

NASHIK: Expressing concern for the hailstorm-affected grape farmers in Nashik, public works minister Chhagan Bhujbal along with minister for agriculture Balasaheb Thorat visited the vineyards to assess the damage.

Bhujbal said the estimated loss is worth Rs 25-30 crores. He put the estimated affected land figure at 4000 hecters, out of which about 2500 hecters are vineyards. Other affected crops are rice (in Igatpuri taluka), onions (in Chandwad taluka), sugarcane and vegetables.

“It is not possible to compensate the damage fully but we will make efforts to at least partially ease the burden of the farmers,” the minister stated.  Bhujbal assured govt efforts on early panchnamas, restoration of power supply and rehabilitation of those affected.