Floods threaten rice crops

CIAMIS, West Java: Unexpected floods during the dry season have virtually destroyed local rice crops.

At least 900 hectares of rice paddy have been inundated by as much as 50 cm of water, the farmers said, adding that they could now forget rice harvest.

The water has also flooded 611 houses, 10 mosques and other public facilities, Antara reported.

Rice paddies in Padaherang and Kalipucang districts are prone to flooding because of their proximity to the Citandeuy, Cirapuan, Cilisung and Cilentah rivers. (05)