Kaptai Lake, renowned for its scenic beauty and tourist allure in Rangamati, transforms into a hub of agricultural activity during the dry season, as local farmers capitalize on its temporary dry-up to cultivate Boro paddy on the lake bed.
As the Boro season unfolds across the country, farmers in Kaptai are catching up with the cultivation trend. The Rangamati Directorate of Agricultural Extension (DAE) reveals an ambitious target of cultivating Boro paddy on 8,205 hectares in the district. This includes 3,730 hectares for the Ufshi rice variety and 4,475 hectares for a hybrid variety, with an overall production target of 7,665 tons. Remarkably, 93% progress has already been achieved, according to DAE sources.
In Rangamati Sadar Upazila, Agriculture Officer Abu Mohammad Moniruzzaman discloses a set target of cultivating Boro on 558 hectares of land, with 315 hectares dedicated to hybrid rice and 243 hectares for the Ufshi variety, aiming to produce 1,890 tons of rice.
Shoal islands emerging in various parts of the lake area adjacent to Kaptai and Bilaichhari upazilas have become focal points for Boro cultivation. Rahman Ali, a seasoned farmer, narrates his transition from earning a livelihood through fishing in the lake to utilizing shoal islands for cultivation during dry seasons.
Farmers like Mangbaching Marma, Samiran Tanchangya, and Sumi Begum attest to the thriving business of cultivating Boro rice during the dry season. The submerged fields, rich in silt, eliminate the need for ploughing, reduce labor, and make cultivation cost-effective.
Acknowledging the farmers’ efforts, the agriculture department extends support through incentives and continuous monitoring. Kaptai Upazila Agriculture Officer Md Imran Ahmed emphasizes the annual utilization of 40 to 45 hectares of land for Boro cultivation, supporting those dependent on Kaptai Lake.
Deputy Director of Rangamati DAE, Mohammad Moniruzzaman, highlights the consistent success of farmers obtaining good yields from shoal islands, coupled with ongoing information support for Boro cultivation on such lands. The unique synergy between agriculture and the picturesque Kaptai Lake reflects a sustainable approach to maximize productivity during the dry season.