Hsinchu plum crops damaged by Qingming rains; farmers eligible for aid

Heavy rainfall during Taiwan's Qingming Festival holiday has caused significant damage to the plum harvest in Hsinchu County's Jianshi Township. The downpours have negatively impacted the crucial stages of flower pollination and fruit setting, leading to reduced yields for local farmers.

Following an assessment by the county's agriculture department and central government agencies, the affected area has been officially designated as a natural disaster zone for plum cultivation. This declaration allows farmers to apply for government assistance to mitigate their losses.

Eligible farmers who have experienced a loss rate of 20% or more can now submit applications to their local township offices. The application period is open until July 10. The government is providing cash relief of NT$140,000 per hectare to help farmers recover and prepare for future cultivation. Jianshi Township is known for its plum cultivation, with approximately 87 hectares dedicated to the crop.