Farmers across northern Bangladesh are struggling to irrigate their Boro rice fields due to a severe diesel shortage caused by the ongoing energy crisis. In Rajshahi, Natore, Naogaon, and Chapainawabganj, irrigation pumps, tube wells, and agricultural machinery have stopped operating, leaving farmers deeply worried about potential crop losses. Many report being forced to buy diesel at inflated prices, paying 15 to 20 taka more per liter than the government rate.
Field reports from Rajshahi’s Godagari and Naogaon’s Durgapur show diesel prices rising from 102 to 120 taka per liter, with some farmers unable to find fuel even at 150 taka. The Department of Agricultural Extension set a target of cultivating 352,000 hectares of Boro in the Rajshahi region, where 21 percent of irrigated land depends on diesel-powered pumps. Experts urge prioritizing agriculture in fuel distribution and suggest subsidies similar to electricity to ease farmers’ costs.
Officials from the Department of Agricultural Extension deny receiving complaints, claiming irrigation remains normal nationwide. However, farmers warn that prolonged shortages could severely disrupt irrigation and threaten national food security.
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