Heavy rain flooded Panchampur mandi in Nuapada district, leaving paddy sacks soaked and farmers frustrated.
Former Supply Minister Sanjay Das Burma visited the mandi today as part of a BJD delegation following directions from former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.
During the inspection, Das Burma observed rainwater accumulation across the mandi premises. Farmers informed him that despite covering the paddy sacks with tarpaulin, water seeped underneath, damaging the stored grain. They blamed poor drainage and mismanagement for the situation.
Das Burma expressed concern over the condition of the mandi and interacted with farmers to understand their grievances. He assured them that the issue would be raised with the concerned authorities for immediate action.
District BJD President Abani Ranjan Joshi, Zilla Parishad Member Bhanu Pratap Singh Majhi, and other local leaders accompanied the former minister during the visit. The delegation reviewed the arrangements and urged officials to ensure proper protection of paddy stocks during the ongoing monsoon.
Farmers demanded urgent steps to prevent further losses and called for improved infrastructure at procurement centres.
