In just four days, 186.000 banana plants in Erode fell due to wind. Officials have stated this is the most severe damage in the past decade. Farmers are appealing to the government to declare suitable compensation.  A survey of banana trees damaged due to rain and strong winds from May 1 to 4 in 32 villages in Bhavanisagar, Sathyamangalam, and Thalavadi blocks concluded, revealing that 186.000 banana plants have been damaged, causing losses for 187 farmers. Moreover, the survey disclosed that 94,000 banana plants were destroyed in a single day, on May 4, in the Bhavanisagar block alone. Officials have stated this is the most severe damage in the past decade. Farmers are appealing to the government to declare suitable compensation. According to sources, the Erode district experienced light rain from May 1 to 4, accompanied by gale winds. As a result, banana trees were severely damaged. The total area of affected banana plants is 67.16 hectares. The value of the damage is estimated to be USD 13.704.

Similarly, from April 18 to 21, there was a strong gale with heavy rain in the Thalavadi block, damaging 76,300 banana plants in 11 villages and affecting 51 farmers. The total area of affected banana trees is 25.30 hectares. Asaithambi, a farmer and coordinator of Pandiyar - Moyar Inaippu Iyakkam, said, "Most of the damaged trees were ready for harvest. Therefore, compensation should undoubtedly be given to the affected farmers as soon as possible. Along with this, an individual crop insurance scheme should be introduced for banana trees. The central and state governments should take appropriate action for this. Usually, about 900 to 1,000 banana plants are cultivated per acre." Officials from the Horticulture and Plantation Crops Department said, "Banana is widely cultivated in the Erode district. Compensation of `17,000 per hectare is given if banana plants are damaged. Usually, compensation is given by the state government for banana plants which are affected during the monsoon. Currently, banana plants have been damaged by gale. We will send a report to the government for them to evaluate the situation and take appropriate action."