**Nashik: Heavy Rains Bring Mixed Blessings to Farmers and Dams**
The continuous rains in Nashik district since May have filled the dams to the brim, bringing a sense of satisfaction to many. However, for farmers, the story is quite different. The relentless downpour, especially in August, has caused extensive damage to standing crops, resulting in significant financial losses for middle-class farmers.
According to administrative statistics, August’s heavy rains have severely impacted agriculture. In 40 villages across the district, a total of 4,014.32 hectares of crops have been damaged, affecting 7,108 farmers. Seasonal crops such as onion, soybean, and maize, along with grape and pomegranate orchards, have suffered substantial losses.
### Financial Assistance and Government Response
In response to the damage, the district administration has submitted a proposal requesting financial assistance amounting to Rs 3.81 crore from the state government. The affected farmers are eagerly awaiting government aid, with hopes pinned on a positive and swift response.
The administration, in collaboration with the agriculture department, has completed panchnamas (official damage assessments) in the impacted areas. These reports, detailing the extent of crop loss and farmer distress, have been forwarded to the state authorities for further action.
### Overflowing Dams and Abundant Rainfall
While the rains have caused crop damage, they have also led to overflowing dams across the district. The Gangapur Dam, a primary water source for Nashik city, currently has a water storage level of 98.56%, prompting continuous discharge to manage the excess.
Overall, dam water storage this year is 9% higher than the previous year. Rainfall data reveals that Dindori taluka has recorded the highest precipitation at 152% of its average. Other talukas such as Deola, Baglan, Nandgaon, Chandwad, Niphad, and Yeola have also experienced over 100% of their normal rainfall.
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As Nashik grapples with the dual realities of overflowing dams and damaged crops, farmers await timely government intervention to help recover their losses and rebuild their livelihoods.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/pune/over-7000-farmers-hit-as-august-rains-ravage-4000-hectares-in-nashik