Kakkanad: The Syro-Malabar Synod has asked the government to come up with schemes that will give courage and comfort to the farmers of Kuttanad who are suffering due to unexpected rains and floods. As frequent crop losses devastate the agricultural sector, permanent solutions are needed. The silt and soil in the canals, rivers and lakes should be removed urgently to ensure free water flow. Out flow of water towards the west should be facilitated and the AC canal should be opened up to Pallathurthi to avoid floods.

About 750 acres of paddy was destroyed due to the rains this year. The government should provide compensation commensurate with the loss as the compensation provided by the insurance companies is grossly inadequate. It should not be forgotten that those who are continuously suffering from crop losses are in great financial trouble.

Efforts to strengthen the bunds as per the Swaminathan Commission's 'Kuttanad Project' have not been completed yet. The government should take immediate steps to strengthen the bunds to prevent collapse. The Synod also demanded that the government should adopt strategies that would benefit the farmers and attract the new generation to agriculture.