Climate Change Threatens Winter Crop Production in Rajshahi
Climate change is threatening winter crop production in Rajshahi, Bangladesh, affecting food security and farmers’ livelihoods. Experts call for urgent action and support for farmers to counteract these adverse impacts. The article highlights the need for transparency in climate funding and the protection of farmers’ rights.
Climate change is significantly impacting winter crop farming in Rajshahi, Bangladesh, leading to adverse effects on agricultural productivity and the livelihoods of farmers. Changes in winter duration and intensity over recent years have created challenges for cultivating winter vegetables. Urgent measures must be implemented to boost agricultural output and ensure food security in light of these climatic impacts.
Abdur Rahim, a farmer from Bargachhi village, stated that the alarming rates of climate change are threatening winter vegetable diversity, posing real risks to food production. He emphasized the necessity for developed nations to honor their climate funding commitments and guarantee transparency in their allocation. Rahim also stressed the importance of safeguarding farmers’ rights to encourage agricultural production amid rising demands.
Shahidul Islam, a regional coordinator for Bangladesh Resource Centre for Indigenous Knowledge (BARCIK), noted that the agricultural system is increasingly jeopardized by climate change and consequent natural disasters. He expressed concern over the effects of climate change on water resources and agriculture in the Barind region, which is particularly vulnerable. Research by Professor Chowdhury Sarwar Jahan from Rajshahi University indicated varying influences of temperature and rainfall on crop yields.
Additionally, trends show a decline in cropland area for rice, sugarcane, and maize, while the area for potatoes, wheat, and pulses is expanding. The Barind region, known for its vulnerability to drought, faces significant challenges to food security and water availability. Professor Osman Gani Talukder of Varendra University highlighted the need for measures to address these climatic impacts on agriculture and protect livelihoods.
Professor Laila Arzuman Banu of Rajshahi University pointed out severe drought consequences, including reduced crop growth and increasing health risks such as malnutrition. She noted that over 16,000 deep tube-wells are currently being utilized to extract groundwater to support irrigation-dependent crops, especially rice, to help sustain the local population.
The article discusses the detrimental effects of climate change on winter crops in the Rajshahi region of Bangladesh. It highlights how severe climate fluctuations have harmed agricultural productivity and the living standards of farmers. With the need for urgent intervention, the piece outlines farmer perspectives and expert opinions on addressing these challenges effectively. The implications for food security and the necessity of honoring climate commitments from developed countries are also underscored.
In conclusion, climate change presents significant challenges to winter crop farming in Rajshahi, affecting both agricultural productivity and farmers’ livelihoods. Expert opinions emphasize the need for urgent action to mitigate these effects, including enhancing farmers’ rights and ensuring adequate climate funding. Addressing these concerns is crucial for maintaining food security in the region and protecting the welfare of local farming communities.
Original Source: www.bssnews.net
