Farmers block highway over fertilizer supply

LALMONIRHAT, Sept 6: Farmers blocked Lalmonirhat-Burimari highway for around half an hour on Sunday, demanding adequate fertiliser supply and an end to “syndicates in the fertilizer trade.”

The farmers placed tree trunks on the highway in front of a Bangladesh Agriculture and Fertilizer Association warehouse in Mahendranagar around 11am.

They alleged that they are not receiving enough fertiliser during the peak farming season, preventing them from applying it to their fields on time.

The blockade caused long queues of vehicles on both sides of the highway.

The farmers withdrew the blockade after around 30 minutes following assurances from the district administration. The deputy commissioner, superintendent of police, upazila nirbahi officer and local chairman later visited the spot.

Lalmonirhat DC Md Rashedul Hoque Prodhan said there is no fertiliser shortage in the district.

He said authorities would investigate and take necessary action if any specific allegations of irregularities are received.�"UNB