Watermelon farmers in Feni are facing severe financial losses due to off-season rain, a fuel shortage affecting transport, and a sharp fall in market prices. Despite an increase in cultivation this season, yields have dropped, leaving many farmers unable to recover their investments. In Sonagazi’s Dakshin Char Chandina, ten farmers invested Tk 11.6 million across 90 acres, but a lack of wholesale buyers has left their harvests rotting in the fields. Farmers are now feeding unsold watermelons to livestock as their produce spoils.

According to the Department of Agricultural Extension, watermelon cultivation in Feni rose from 774 hectares last year to 1,299 hectares this year, with Sonagazi alone exceeding its target. Last season’s sales reached Tk 1.5 billion, and expectations were high for Tk 2.5 billion this year. However, rain damage, transport costs inflated by the global fuel crisis, and virus outbreaks have dashed those hopes. Farmers report earning less than one-third of their production costs.

Local officials acknowledged the crisis, citing fuel shortages and weather disruptions as key factors. Authorities said they would assist with transport fuel if formally requested, while affected farmers are urging both government and private support to recover from the losses.