Mustafa Kamal Nannu, Tangail
Despite being recognized as a Geographical Indication (GI) product, Tangail’s traditional handloom saree industry is on the verge of collapse due to lack of proper patronage and support. Out of approximately 100,000 looms once operating in the district, more than 75,000 have already shut down. The remaining looms are in a state of disrepair, and less than 15,000 are currently operational.
During a recent visit to various weaving villages in Tangail, this correspondent found silence in places once vibrant with the rhythmic sounds of looms. Rusting machinery worth millions of taka now lie abandoned. The massive downturn began during the COVID-19 pandemic when nearly 75% of the looms were forced to halt operations due to financial losses.
In a desperate attempt to recover, many weavers took out high-interest loans from banks and NGOs to restart production. However, they continue to struggle with losses. Soaring production costs and inadequate market prices for sarees have left them unable to break even.
Many loom owners say that while their expenses have gone up sharply, the price their products fetch in the market has not increased proportionately. As a result, thousands have already abandoned the profession, while those who remain are not receiving fair wages.
“We are barely surviving. Even after working six days a week, I can’t manage basic household expenses,” said one woman worker who still works in a loom house. “Many have already left the job, and others are waiting for an alternative.”
According to sources, the majority of those still in the trade are women who are often underpaid. Their families are living in extreme financial hardship.
However, there may be some relief in sight. Md Zahidur Rahman, Liaison Officer of the Tangail Handloom Board, said: “The government has initiated a low-interest loan scheme to support weavers. The project will be launched very soon.
