Farmers stare at losses, demand girdawari Unseasonal rain accompanied by high-velocity winds last night has led to widespread damage of standing wheat crop in the district. Weather experts at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) say the rain took place due to western disturbances. “The crop has been flattened at several places in the district. Farmers are bound to suffer losses as there are minimal chances of its revival,” said a wheat breeder at PAU. The farmers are worried as they would have to grapple with the delay in harvesting and procurement. Satnam Singh, a farmer from Lalton village, demanded a special girdawari to access the loss. “Even though the model code of conduct is in force, the government can take up the matter with the Centre,” he said. Fatehgarh Sahib: Standing wheat crop at several places was flattened by rain last night. Experts said waterlogging in the fields would affect yield this year. Besides, harvesting will be delayed and the quality of grain would be affected. Farmers say earlier they had to spend Rs 600 per acre for spraying pesticides to tackle yellow rust and now the rain would hit the yield. They urged the government to hold a special girdawari to work out compensation.