Despite the scorching heatwave sweeping over Bogra and surrounding areas, farmers in Sariakandi upazila are forging ahead with the harvest of Boro paddy across 700 hectares of land. Fearing potential rain and storms, they’re braving the intense sun to ensure an early harvest, following directives from the agriculture office.
Every household in the upazila is actively engaged in paddy thrashing, buoyed by the prospect of fetching favorable prices for their produce. Amid the relentless heatwave, farmers are prioritizing early varieties of Boro paddy, aiming to preempt any adverse weather conditions.
Matiar Rahman, a farmer in Sadar Union, attested to the urgency, having already harvested paddy in low-lying areas to mitigate the risk of hailstorms.
Sumon Mia, a paddy trader in Phulbari union, noted the influx of new Boro paddy in local markets, with prices ranging from Tk1,000 to Tk1,100 per mound.
According to the Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE) in Sariakandi upazila, Boro paddy cultivation has covered 14,550 hectares of land this year, with 700 hectares already harvested. The cultivation includes various varieties like BRRI, Ufshi, hybrid, and local varieties.
Abdul Halim, the Agriculture Officer in Sariakandi Upazila, emphasized the importance of swift action due to unpredictable weather patterns, urging farmers to harvest at least 80% of their crop quickly. With weather forecasts indicating potential inclement weather ahead, farmers have been advised to prioritize fieldwork during cooler temperatures to mitigate the effects of the ongoing heatwave. Stay tuned for updates on the agricultural front amidst changing weather conditions.
