Unexpected Rains Cause Concerns for Farmers in Punjab and Haryana

The recent heavy rainfall across Punjab and Haryana has brought down temperatures but raised concerns for local farmers about potential damage to the standing wheat crop. Key regions like Amritsar, Patiala, and Chandigarh experienced below-normal temperatures, causing uncertainty for the agricultural community amidst fears of crop loss.

Heavy rains swept through parts of Punjab and Haryana on Friday, driving temperatures below their usual levels for this time of year. The region's common capital, Chandigarh, saw light precipitation, with maximum temperatures reaching 31.7 degrees Celsius, according to a report from the meteorological department.

Affected areas in these states include key agricultural regions such as Amritsar, Patiala, and Mohali. The weather event has sparked concerns among local farmers regarding potential harm to the standing wheat crop, an integral part of the regional economy.

While cities like Patiala and Gurugram recorded highs slightly above 32 degrees Celsius, temperatures remained atypically cool across most other locations, straying up to four notches below the normal range.

(With inputs from agencies.)