Massive agricultural losses as Nor’westers strikes Shibganj

Massive agricultural damage has been reported in Shibganj after a powerful Nor’westers swept through Chapainawabganj late Saturday night.

Mango losses have been significant. Mango trader Rubel said, “In my life, I have never faced such a loss. My 52 bighas of mango orchards have been completely devastated.”

Farmer Amanullah Aman said, “I am devastated as my 15 bighas of paddy fields have been heavily damaged.” Similar situations have been reported among hundreds of farmers in the upazila. Not only farmers, but many poor and helpless families have also lost their homes in the storm.

Regarding the incident, Shibganj Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Mazharul Islam said that a severe storm hit the area last night. Damage assessment is underway through the Agriculture Department.

He added that affected areas will be visited and a proper list of losses will be prepared, followed by necessary assistance.

Deputy Director of the Department of Agricultural Extension in the district, Dr. Yasin Ali, said that around 4,500 hectares of mango orchards and other agricultural lands in Shibganj have been severely damaged, which is higher than in other upazilas. Data collection is still ongoing, and necessary steps will be taken in consultation with higher authorities to help recover the losses.

The sudden storm uprooted mango trees, damaged houses and shops, and severely disrupted the electricity supply across the area.

Local farmers said that they were still recovering from recent hailstorm damage when last night’s powerful storm hit again. Large numbers of mango orchards were destroyed, with many trees uprooted, leaving farmers in deep concern and distress.

In addition, houses and shops in Shibganj municipality and surrounding areas collapsed due to the storm’s intensity. Many families are still suffering from the aftermath.

A nearly 150-year-old tree in Shibganj municipality was also uprooted, sparking widespread discussion among locals.