The water shortage has left paddy fields in Thalainayar resembling barren land, with farmers estimating that only 50-60% of the seeds may germinate if water arrives soon. The crisis follows a similar fate for the kuruvai season earlier this year. Farmers who planted medium-duration paddy varieties are particularly affected, with some reporting significant losses on their land. The delayed opening of the Mettur dam, 81 days after the usual June 12 date, has exacerbated the situation, leaving farmers with insufficient time to cultivate their crops.