In Jhikargacha upazila of Jashore district, mustard farmers are facing the threat of significant losses due to recent heavy rainfall induced by cyclonic storm Michaung. Much of the mustard fields have been submerged, causing widespread concern among the local agricultural community.
Lutfur Rahman, a farmer from Bishnupur village, expressed his worries as his mustard crop over two bighas of land, initially promising a bumper yield, now faces potential ruin. The continuous drizzle last week due to the cyclonic storm has dampened his hopes for a successful harvest.
The standing water has begun to cause root decomposition in many plants. However, Lutfur noted that timely drainage might still save the crops.
Similarly, Abul Islam from Matshia village reported damage to a significant portion of his 2.5 bigha of mustard fields due to the unexpected rainfall.
Masud Hossain Palash, the Upazila Agriculture Officer, mentioned that while the target for mustard cultivation was 3,600 hectares, enthusiastic farmers brought 4,100 hectares under cultivation, surpassing the target. Unfortunately, many of these low-lying areas are now waterlogged.
Palash acknowledged the risk of root rot in the inundated fields but assured that the Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE) is actively advising farmers on strategies to mitigate these losses.
