Flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall have wreaked havoc on the crops of over 4,800 farmers in Manikganj district. The downpour damaged crops on 222 hectares of land, causing significant distress to small and marginal farmers. The district received at least 301 millimetres of rainfall between July 4 and July 10, leading to widespread inundation of standing crops. Agriculture Secretary Dr Rafiqul I Mohamed has stated that the government will promptly decide on providing necessary assistance and incentives to the flood-affected farmers.
The Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) under the Ministry of Agriculture has prepared a detailed report on the damage to standing crops. Similarly, the local administration has documented the situation. The flash floods have caused an approximate crop output damage of nearly 1471.5 tonnes, valued at over Taka 3 crore.
Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam, also the convener of Manikganj district BNP, has urged the agriculture ministry to launch an emergency rehabilitation programme for the affected farmers. In a letter to the ministry, she emphasized the need for quick support to prevent a decline in crop production for the next season and to alleviate the economic pressure on the district's farm economy.
Farmers in Manikganj cultivate a variety of crops throughout the year, including paddy, jute, mustard, maize, chilli, papaya, and vegetables. The district, located near the capital, is a major supplier of agricultural produce, playing a crucial role in meeting the city's food demand. The recent floods have partially damaged different standing crops on 222 hectares and completely destroyed vegetables on 17 hectares, papaya on over 19 hectares, T-aman seed bed on 4.6 hectares, jute on 1.2 hectares, and chilli on 10 hectares.
The government is actively considering providing necessary assistance, including seed, fertilizer, seedlings, and other agricultural commodities, to help the affected farmers resume crop production soon. Agriculture Secretary Dr Rafiqul I Mohamed confirmed that necessary instructions have been given to concerned officials to assess and verify the crop loss.
