Article Today, Hyderabad: Farmers across Telangana are facing an acute Urea Crisis during the peak monsoon season. The demand for fertilizers has surged, but officials have failed to ensure adequate supply.
Allegations suggest that a section of MARKFED officials are colluding with private dealers to divert stock into the black market, leaving farmers struggling for basic agricultural inputs.
Officials, Dealers Under Scrutiny
Farmers accuse some MARKFED managers and primary cooperative societies of creating an artificial scarcity by holding back urea stocks. These stocks are allegedly being sold to dealers at inflated prices. Reports indicate that even a senior MARKFED official in Hyderabad may be involved in this racket. Despite these serious claims, higher authorities have remained silent, raising suspicions of internal complicity.
Ramagundam Plant Shutdown Worsens Supply
The situation has been further aggravated by the temporary closure of the Ramagundam Fertilizer and Chemicals Limited (RFCL) plant in Peddapalli district. On Wednesday night, production came to a halt due to an ammonia connector pipeline leak. Officials estimate that repairs will take up to 20 days. During this period, the state may lose over 50,000 metric tonnes of urea, affecting not just Telangana but also neighbouring Andhra Pradesh.
Half of July Quota Delivered So Far
Telangana is entitled to receive 60,000 metric tonnes of urea each month. However, in July, only 30,800 metric tonnes have been allotted so far. With the shutdown of the Ramagundam plant, farmers fear the shortage may worsen. Peddapalli MP Gaddam Vamsikrishna has already taken the issue to the Centre. After submitting a memorandum, the Union government has promised to improve the supply.
Strict Warnings from Agriculture Department
Director of Agriculture, Dr. B. Gopi, has warned dealers and distributors against illegal stockpiling of fertilizers. He instructed district-level officials to carry out regular inspections and take strict action against those selling urea in the black market. Cases will be filed against violators. Urea must be distributed based on farmer requirements, he said, acknowledging that long queues in several districts reflect the growing desperation.
Helpline for Grievances
To tackle the crisis, the Agriculture Department has set up a control room. Farmers can report black marketing or hoarding of urea by calling the helpline number 89777-41771. Officials assured that complaints will be acted upon swiftly to prevent further exploitation of the farming community.
