A severe fuel shortage in Ramganj upazila of Lakshmipur has disrupted irrigation for the ongoing Boro season, raising concerns over crop yield. Irregular diesel and electricity supply have hindered water pumping in fields, leaving many farmers unable to irrigate on schedule. As a result, uncertainty looms over this year’s Irri and Boro rice production.

Local farmers said that delayed irrigation reduces Boro yield and causes grain sterility. Many are being forced to buy diesel at inflated prices, doubling their production costs. Farmer Shamsul Alam reported that diesel, once easily available at fixed rates, now costs two to three times more and is still difficult to obtain, putting cultivation at risk.

According to the upazila agriculture office, Boro rice has been cultivated on 3,910 hectares this season. The office warned that continued fuel shortages could prevent achieving the production target. Upazila Agriculture Officer Sabbir Ahmed stated that the issue is being addressed seriously and efforts are underway to normalize fuel supply through coordination with relevant authorities.