Dried coconut scarcity prevails in Pirojpur

PIROJPUR, Aug 22: Coconut remains the most popular fruit among people across the country. 
Both green and dried coconuts are used as versatile fruit items. Due to high demand for green coconuts and a decline in average production, the scarcity of dried coconuts has increased significantly.

Rural people use coconuts in various ways while preparing dishes. Coconut milk makes food tasty and healthy. Coconut shells and coir ropes are also useful household items in village family life. Coconut juice, water, kernel and copra are tasty food-fruits in coastal areas. Dr Mizanur Rahman said coconut instantly reduces weakness and recharges energy. 

It is good for digestion because it contains huge fibres, controls blood sugar and blood pressure, keeps the heart normal and increases immunity. He also said it is ideal compared with any other fruits available in the local markets.

Ahead of Durga Puja, the Hindu community is facing a crisis of coconuts to prepare the most essential item, coconut balls or laddu. A pair of coconuts is being sold for Tk 200, which is unbearable for everyone.

Green coconut trader Nanna Mia said green coconuts are being transported to Dhaka and other places across the country at attractive prices, so growers are interested in picking coconuts at an early age. As a result, the scarcity of dried coconuts is increasing day by day.

Bishu Das, agriculturist, said traditional farming of coconut is not profitable for farmers, so they are not interested in expanding coconut orchards. It takes a long time to return the investment. Foreign varieties could gain popularity among common farmers, though coastal saline land is ideal for coconut farming.
As a cash crop, coconut cultivation must be made sustainable in the district and the coastal region as well.