The ongoing floods in Feni have resulted in huge losses to local livestock industry estimated around Tk 396 crore, according to a report by UNB.
In a report published on Friday, UNB reported that over 2,500 poultry, cattle, and dairy entrepreneurs in the district have found themselves in a dire situation as the sudden floods, caused by water flowing downstream from India, have taken everything from them. The floods have destroyed 2,500 poultry farms, including those raising layers, broilers, and golden chickens.
Mosto of the afftected entrepreneurs said that they never imagined something like this would happen to them as this area has never experienced floods before.
In six upazilas of the district, 39 unions and municipalities have been affected, with 38,731 cows, 359 buffaloes, 15,588 goats, and 736 sheep perishing in the floods. Additionally, 2,167,510 chickens and 189,472 ducks have died. The total estimated damage to livestock is valued at Tk 396 crore.
According to local sources, a total of 42.5 lakh livestock and poultry were affected by the floods. In addition, damage to 1,992 cattle farms amounted to Tk 1.3 crore, while 1,623 poultry farms suffered losses of Tk 1.09 crore.
Beside these, 3,950 tons of animal feed, worth Tk 2.35 lakh, were destroyed, along with hay valued at Tk 38.15 lakh and grass worth 38.15 lakh. A total of 285 acres of pastureland was also submerged.
In light of this situation, the affected farmers are appealing for financial assistance and government support to recover from their losses.
Dr. Md. Mozammel Haque, district livestock officer, stated that the severe floods this year have resulted in the loss of 64,161 livestock and 23 lakh poultry in Feni. The total estimated loss to the livestock sector in Feni is Tk 396.09 crore.
The Department of Livestock has assured the affected farmers that they will receive food assistance, government aid, soft loans, advice, and training to help them recover from their losses.
