Untimely rains in Punjab worry farmers, dampens spirits at Saras festival at PAU

Rains that began around 7:30 am on Tuesday brought concern not only to farmers who are preparing to harvest their standing paddy crop but also to hundreds of exhibitors participating in the 10-day Saras Festival at PAU grounds.

Farmers expressed anxiety over the untimely showers, which they fear could damage their nearly ripened crop, especially when accompanied by strong winds.

Raghbir Singh Benipal, a farmer and senior leader from Jamhuri Kisan Sabha, said the rains have added stress to the farming community.

“The crop is yet to ripen fully, and we were planning to harvest it in another 10–12 days. These rains can harm the grain, and the strong winds can flatten the standing crop. We can only pray for mercy from nature; otherwise, farmers will suffer losses,” he said.

Although the weather department had predicted rain in advance, the showers still came as an unpleasant surprise for exhibitors at the Saras Festival. Many were seen hurriedly covering their stocks with tarpaulin sheets to prevent damage. “We are really worried. The rains not only affect our sales as visitors stay away, but also damage our products,” said Surdul, an artisan from Saharanpur showcasing wooden handicrafts.

Meanwhile, the downpour has brought a sudden dip in temperature, with residents beginning to feel a slight chill in the air.