Pest attack on Aman plants worries Patuakhali farmers
National Desk:
Farmers in several upazilas of the district are facing significant challenges due to an unusual rate of insect infestation attacking Aman rice fields.
The once-green rice fields are rapidly turning yellow and scorched in areas such as Sadar, Kalapara, Mirzaganj, Dumki, Galachipa, Dashmina, Bauphal and Rangabali.
This has sparked deep concern among farmers, who fear major losses if the pest damage continues.
A field survey revealed that leaf-wrapping insects and scorching pests are destroying the young rice plants in many regions, escalating concerns about reduced yields, reports BSS.
The infestation is reportedly spreading across multiple unions, including Jalisha, Baherchar, Dakshin Muradia in Dumki upazila, and several others in Baufal, Mirzaganj, and Bauphal upazilas.
Many farmers in these affected areas reported that the insects began attacking rice crops last week. Locals claim the pests are hitting highland crops hardest, with plants showing signs of severe damage.
Nurul Amin, a farmer from Jalisha village in Dumki, shared his concerns with BSS, saying that a portion of his land had been scorched in the past week. “First, the leaves turn yellow and dry out, and then the rice ears are damaged,” Amin explained. “I’ve sprayed medicine, but there has been no improvement. If this continues, I’ll lose half of my crop.”
Abdul Khalek, another farmer from Dakshin Muradia, echoed the sentiment, noting that despite purchasing multiple types of pesticides, the insects continue to ravage his crops. “I’ve tried different medicines from various shops, but the problem seems to be getting worse,” Khalek lamented. “We don’t know which treatment to use, and many others are facing similar problems.”
Amir Hossain, a farmer from Rajakhali village, pointed out that the pest infestation is particularly severe in highland areas. “The tops of the rice plants are drying out,” Hossain said. “If the pests reach the rice ears, it is not possible to revive anymore.”
Farmers from Baufal’s Kanakdia area, including Abdus Sattar Mia, Malek Mia, and Faruk Mia, reported widespread infestations, with regular pesticide applications proving ineffective.
