RAJSHAHI, Apr 6: After days of intense heatwave, Rajshahi finally experienced much-needed rainfall, bringing relief to residents and raising hopes of improved yield for mango and jute crops, according to farmers and agricultural officials.
Rain began late Friday night and continued intermittently, with the district recording up to 32 millimetres of rainfall by Saturday 11am, the highest so far this year, according to the local weather office.
Meteorologist Tarek Aziz of the Rajshahi Weather Observatory said there had been almost no significant rainfall throughout April. The district recorded a peak temperature of 40°C on April 22, while prolonged dry conditions had been causing mango drop and worsening living conditions.
"The rain has lowered the temperature and brought relief to people. No major damage has been reported as wind speed remained low," he said.
Farmers said the rainfall has come as a blessing for mango cultivation. Mahbub Islam, a mango grower from Puthia Upazila, said flower stalks were drying up and fruits were falling due to lack of moisture.
"This rain will stop premature fruit drop and help mangoes develop properly," he said.
Jute farmers have also expressed relief, saying the rainfall is crucial for their fields after a prolonged dry spell. Farmers from Paba Upazila said they had been relying on irrigation for paddy fields, which will now be less necessary.
"The rain is beneficial for both mango and jute. It will also help other crops and vegetables while reducing irrigation costs," said Monir Hossain, a farmer.
Deputy Director of the Department of Agricultural Extension in Rajshahi, Md Nasir Uddin, said the absence of hailstorms or severe weather made the rainfall highly beneficial for crops, particularly mango and jute.
The Met Office has forecast further rainfall in the region, which is expected to keep the environment cooler and reduce dust pollution, offering continued relief to residents.
