Recent torrential rains and floods have devastated more than 15,000 acres of paddy fields, the Ministry of Agriculture reported. While the bulk of the damage affected paddy fields in their early stages of cultivation, mitigating the overall impact, the destruction is still significant.

Agriculture Minister Mahinda Amaraweera confirmed that upcountry vegetable cultivations largely escaped the worst effects of the rains. “Vegetable farmers have not been affected significantly as the rains did not have a major impact on these crops,” he stated.

Amaraweera assured that affected farmers would receive compensation. “Those whose cultivations have been damaged by heavy rains and floods will be compensated,” he said. The Minister has submitted a proposal to the Cabinet seeking approval for compensation funds.

The Ministry of Agriculture estimates that Rs. 100 million will be required to support farmers who have suffered crop losses. Additionally, the inclement weather has impacted tea cultivation in the Southern Province