Daijiworld Media Network - Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Sep 9: Heavy monsoon rains have left a trail of destruction across Marathwada, claiming at least 50 lives and damaging crops spread over 5.62 lakh hectares, officials said on Tuesday. Nanded has emerged as the worst-affected district.

As per a report from the divisional commissioner’s office, the region received 606.3 mm of rainfall since June 1, which is 8.7% above normal. Nanded, which witnessed floods last month, recorded 21.2% more than the expected rainfall.

The toll includes 18 deaths in Nanded, 11 in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, six each in Beed and Hingoli, five in Parbhani, and three in Jalna. Besides, 1,049 animals perished and 3,388 houses were damaged.

Crop losses have hit 15.78 lakh farmers. Nanded alone saw destruction of crops on 2.62 lakh hectares, while Hingoli reported losses on 1.24 lakh hectares. The survey to assess damages is 45% complete, the report added.