A combination of diesel supply constraints and rising fuel prices is placing increasing pressure on farmers in Bangladesh’s haor regions, as they race to harvest Boro paddy amid growing concerns over weather-related risks.
In the low-lying wetlands of the Sylhet division, where agriculture is highly vulnerable to sudden flooding, the harvest season has begun under difficult conditions. Farmers report that limited fuel availability and sharply higher operating costs are delaying the use of mechanised harvesters, a critical tool for timely crop collection.
According to the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), more than 223,000 hectares of land across Sunamganj district alone have been cultivated with Boro paddy this season, with production targets set at around 1.4 million metric tonnes. However, the pace of harvesting has slowed in many areas.
Mechanised harvesting has become essential in the region due to the narrow window between crop maturity and the onset of seasonal flooding. But farmers say the cost of hiring combine harvesters has risen significantly compared with last year. In some cases, charges have nearly doubled, reflecting both higher fuel prices and limited machine availability.
Farmers also report difficulty securing equipment even at elevated rates, with many forced to coordinate group bookings or wait extended periods for access. This has heightened anxiety over potential crop losses, particularly if early rainfall or flash floods occur.
Operators of harvesting machines say they are facing similar constraints. Limited diesel supply through official channels has disrupted operations, with some turning to informal markets at higher prices to keep machinery running. Increased maintenance costs have added further strain.
Local agricultural authorities acknowledge logistical challenges in fuel distribution but maintain that overall supply levels remain adequate. Officials say coordination efforts are ongoing to streamline delivery and ensure availability during the peak harvesting period.
Despite favourable crop yields this year, farmers warn that rising input costs—including fertiliser, seeds, irrigation and harvesting—are eroding profitability. With rice prices not increasing at the same pace, many face the prospect of financial losses.
The situation underscores the vulnerability of Bangladesh’s haor agriculture system, where timely harvesting is crucial and external shocks—ranging from fuel price fluctuations to supply disruptions—can quickly translate into economic hardship for rural communities.
