SREEPUR , GAZIPUR, Apr 18: A severe nor'wester accompanied by hailstorm has damaged around 300 hectares of Boro paddy fields in Sreepur Upazila of Gazipur, affecting nearly 1,000 farmers.
The storm also damaged about 400 houses, of which at least 40 were completely destroyed, leaving many families in distress. Vegetable fields in the area also suffered significant losses, further worsening the situation for local farmers and residents.
The nor'wester struck several villages under Kawraid union on Thursday, causing widespread destruction to agricultural land and homesteads. Strong winds and hail flattened standing crops within minutes, while many tin-shed houses were either blown away or severely damaged. Trees were uprooted in several places, disrupting local movement.
Local residents said the sudden storm created panic as it swept through the area, giving people little time to take shelter or protect their belongings. Many families were forced to spend the night in damaged homes or temporary shelters as heavy rain followed the storm.
Gazipur-3 lawmaker Prof SM Rafiqul Islam visited the affected villages on Friday morning to inspect the damage. After the visit, he said almost every farmer in at least three villages had been affected.
"The extent of the damage is very high. Relevant departments have been instructed to prepare lists of affected people. All affected farmers will be provided assistance," he said.
Sreepur Upazila Agriculture Officer Sumaia Sultana said field-level officials started assessment work immediately after the storm.
She confirmed that around 300 hectares of Boro paddy had been damaged, with an estimated production loss of about 1,800 tonnes.
She added that around 400 houses were affected, including about 40 that were fully destroyed.
"We have already prepared lists of affected farmers and households. Assistance will be provided according to government decisions," she said.
Farmers expressed deep concern over the losses, saying the storm came at a critical time when the crop was nearing harvest. Many said they had invested heavily in cultivation this season and were expecting a good yield. They warned that without urgent support, recovering from the financial setback would be very difficult.
Local sources said vegetable fields and homestead gardens were also damaged, affecting daily income sources of many families. Small livestock shelters were also impacted in some areas.
Authorities said further assessments are ongoing to determine the full extent of the damage and ensure proper relief and rehabilitation support for the affected families in the coming days.
