Sylhet cane industry struggling to survive

Once famous cane industry in Sylhet now battles for its existence as few cane furniture manufacturers are now holding to their ancestral businesses.

Cane farmers said the invasion of modern and cheaper wood and plastic furniture, use of land for agriculture instead of growing cane, and mindless deforestation pushed industry close to death. Even five to six years ago, the district used to export cane furniture after

meeting the local demand. Currently, the export remains suspended.

Farmers said the cane furniture of Sylhet has a great demand home and abroad due to its quality. But they cannot make furniture owing to the raw material crunch, spiralling prices of imported cane and labour crisis.

Traders alleged neither the department of agricultural extension nor the forest department provided them with any help in growing cane.

According to forest department, a cane cultivation project was taken up in 2000. Many new plantations were created then. Cane growing under the department started to decline as the project expired.

There is a Betpalli (cane furniture hub) in Ghasitula of Sylhet city. Maximum cane furniture were produced in this market. Now, the market has lost its past glory, and for many reasons.

Market people said the business had been shrinking over the years. However, cane products still have demand in both local and international markets because of their durability and attractive designs.

People still look for them to decorate bedrooms and living rooms while posh hotels and resorts also use them for decoration.

The dearth of capital, artisans and dependence on cane import were behind the bad shape of the industry, said the traders.

Once there were more than 50 showrooms of cane furniture at Ghasitula, which has declined to 22. More than 5,000 workers are currently working in this sector.

Besides, another 500 workers are involved in the industry in Balaganj, Chunarughat and Derai in the division.

Oaliur Rahman, owner of AB Rattan Furniture, and Shah Alam, owner of Manau Rattan Furniture, said as cane is not cultivated commercially, there always remains inconsistency in the supply of raw materials. Besides, the price of cane and other chemicals used in furniture are gradually increasing.

Expressing frustration, the traders said once the sector had a good reputation for its unique quality and competitive prices, but now it is a dying industry.

They urged the government for giving subsidies in this section.