GOPALGANJ, Jan 12: Severe cold and dense fog have slowed Boro paddy cultivation in Gopalganj, leaving farmers anxious about meeting targets.
According to the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), the district set a target of 82,588 hectares for Boro this season, with seedbeds planned on 4,260 hectares. Farmers prepared slightly more-4,430 hectares. But so far only 12,346 hectares have been planted, compared to 25,000 hectares by this time last year.
Farmers say seedlings are suffering cold injury, with growth stunted and leaves turning yellow. Many are unable to enter fields due to biting cold. "We get only one crop a year. Seedlings are not growing, many have turned yellow," said Roiqul Khondkar, a farmer from Gopinathpur Village.
Officials confirmed the delay. "Extreme cold has kept farmers out of the fields. Seedbeds have been affected, though the situation is under control," said Dr Md Mamunur Rahman, Deputy Director of the Gopalganj farm office.
Farmers in Kashiani and Tungipara upazilas reported seedlings aging in seedbeds as planting is postponed. Agriculture officers advised retaining water in seedbeds overnight, covering with polythene, and spraying sulphur-based fungicides.
The cold wave has also raised health concerns, especially for elderly farmers. "We are advising them not to enter fields. If planting is completed by January 30, production should not be disrupted," Rahman added.
Abu Sufian, Acting Officer at the Gopalganj weather office, said, a moderate cold wave is sweeping the district. On January 7, the minimum temperature dropped to 7°C. The cold spell that began on December 25 continues, but conditions are expected to improve after January 12. "Sunlight has been scarce, making the cold feel harsher. Fog may increase for two more days, but then the situation should gradually improve," he said.
Despite the challenges, agriculture officials remain hopeful. Sanjoy Kumar Kundu, Additional Deputy Director of the DAE, said: "This year's production target for Boro is 602,631 metric tonnes. Since January 7, the sun has been shining and farmers are slowly returning to the fields. We expect that, despite obstacles, farmers will exceed the target."
