Food deficit looms large in some VDCs of Bajhang district as the production of paddy and millet has been greatly affected by blast fungus.

The production of paddy and millet could decline by up to 90 percent in Kadel, Masta, Rilu, Hemantawada, Kailash, Subeda, Bhatekhola and Kotdebal VDCs, according to the District Agriculture Development Office.

Fearing famine in these villages, the district natural disaster relief committee has asked the government to provide necessary relief to the affected farmers.

Chief District Officer Sunil Khanal said the eight VDCs affected by blast fungus are certain to witness acute food shortage.

Production of paddy and millet is almost zero in the affected villages, he added.

The committee has decided to request the Agriculture Ministry to provide relief and the Local Development Ministry to run food for work programme in the affected villages.

Blast causes lesions on leaves, stems, seeds and even roots. The disease was found in some paddy fields in Kadel VDC in mid-July and soon spread in other villages.