Eco-friendly light traps harmful pests in paddy fields

FAKIRHAT, BAGERHAT, Oct 20: The Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) has installed light traps in Aman paddy fields across Fakirhat Upazila to identify and control harmful insects, helping farmers reduce pesticide use and production costs.

Around 250 farmers in 24 blocks across the upazila's eight unions are using the method. After dusk, insects attracted to the light become trapped and die, allowing farmers and agricultural officials to identify the presence and intensity of pest attacks.

According to the upazila agriculture office, adverse weather this season has increased the risk of attacks by stem borers and other harmful pests in Aman fields. Light traps have therefore been installed simultaneously in all blocks of the upazila.

Officials monitor the insects caught in the traps and advise farmers on the type and extent of pest attacks and appropriate control measures.

Aman has been cultivated on around 4,600 hectares in Fakirhat this season, exceeding the official target. Farmers are growing high-yielding, hybrid and local varieties, including BRRI-103, BRRI-95, BRRI-93 and BRRI-87.

Farmers are also using the environmentally friendly perching method alongside light traps. Branches, bamboo poles and sticks are placed in paddy fields so that birds can perch on them and feed on harmful insects.

Sheikh Jahangir Hossain, a farmer from Bahirdia Union, said he had cultivated Aman on one acre of land.

“Excessive rain damaged my first seedbed, so planting was delayed this year. Although pests appeared in the field, their numbers have decreased after using light traps and the perching method. This has also reduced pesticide use and production costs,” he said.

Rezaul Islam, a farmer from Nalda Union, said pest attacks had declined after he installed light traps and placed branches in his field following advice from agricultural officials.

Sheikh Sakhawat Hossain, Upazila Agriculture Officer, said the light traps were helping identify pests and provide farmers with timely advice.
“We are working closely with farmers to control harmful insects through biological pesticides, reduce their production costs and promote safe food production,” he said.