Dense fog destroys Boro paddy seedlings in Ishwardi

Ishwardi (Pabna) Correspondent :

The ongoing winter has intensified dense fog across Ishwardi, with minimum temperatures fluctuating between 8.6 and 12 degrees Celsius. According to the weather office, Ishwardi recorded 9.8 degrees Celsius on Sunday (January 26) and 11.2 degrees Celsius on Monday (January 27).
The dense fog has already started damaging Boro paddy seedlings, which are turning yellow from their healthy dark green color. The Department of Agriculture reports that when the temperature drops below 18 degrees Celsius, it adversely affects the growth of Boro paddy and other crops. Farmers fear that if the current weather conditions persist, the seedlings may not survive long enough to be transplanted into the fields, jeopardizing Boro cultivation this year.
In areas like Sara Gopalpur, fields reveal young Boro paddy seedlings suffering from the effects of cold waves and dense fog. Farmers expressed concerns that if the situation continues for another week, they will be unable to transplant the seedlings, threatening the success of this year’s Boro harvest.
According to data from the Agriculture Office, the target for cultivating Boro paddy seedlings in Ishwardi is 44 hectares. However, only 21 hectares of seedbeds have been prepared so far, as the dense fog and low temperatures have delayed the process. Moreover, even the prepared seedbeds have suffered significant damage due to the extreme cold.
Farmers are finding it increasingly difficult to protect the seedlings, even with additional care. The Agriculture Department has recommended covering the seedbeds, misting them daily to remove fog, and applying fungicides. However, many farmers are struggling to implement these measures effectively.
Mominul, a farmer from Mazdia, shared his frustration, stating, “The seedlings are turning yellow before they are ready to be planted. There is no way.