Mathura (UP), April 8 A farmer is alleged to have died of a heart attack after witnessing the extensive damage to his Rabi crop caused by unseasonal rain here, officials said.
The incident occurred in Prem Nagar village under the Mant tehsil on Tuesday, as recent spells of rain, accompanied by strong winds and hail, have severely affected crops, including wheat.
According to Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) district president Meera Singh, Heeralal collapsed after seeing his damaged crop and died of a suspected heart attack.
Naib Tehsildar Ruby Yadav visited the scene following the incident, and BKU representatives demanded immediate financial assistance for the bereaved family.
Sub-Divisional Magistrate (Mant) Ritu Sirohi said that the family performed the last rites without a post-mortem. However, efforts will be made to ensure that administrative assistance reaches them.
Officials noted that recent rains and hailstorms in several parts of the district have caused significant damage to wheat crops, leaving farmers distressed. District Magistrate Chandraprakash Singh urged the affected farmers to file claims under the crop insurance scheme within the stipulated time.
The administration is conducting surveys to assess the damage and sending reports to the government for further action, he added.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday directed officials to ensure immediate compensation for farmers and expressed "deep concern" over the damage caused to Rabi crops due to unseasonal rains, hailstorms, and fire incidents in some areas.
"It is natural for farmers to feel worried in such adverse circumstances, and the state government stands firmly with them with full commitment," the chief minister said as he chaired a high-level review meeting on Wednesday morning in Lucknow, according to an official statement.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a continued spell of rainshowers, thunderstorms, and gusty winds in Mathura and nearby areas from Wednesday to Thursday, issuing an orange alert for the region.