Climate change is severely threatening winter crop farming in Rajshahi, affecting farmers’ livelihoods and food security. Farmers like Abdur Rahim emphasize the need for urgent climate funding and support for agricultural rights. Studies reveal disturbing trends in crop yields influenced by temperature changes and water availability. Experts call for immediate steps to mitigate climate impacts on agriculture and safeguard farmers’ interests.
Climate change is increasingly threatening winter crops in Rajshahi, leading to significant challenges for farmers in the region. Adverse climatic changes have altered the duration and intensity of winter, negatively impacting the farming of various winter vegetables. Urgent measures are essential to enhance agricultural productivity and ensure food security in the face of these ongoing climatic challenges.
Abdur Rahim, a resilient farmer from Bargachhi village, highlighted the dangerous effects of climate change on winter vegetable farming, which undermines food production diversity. He urged developed nations to honor their climate funding commitments while advocating for farmers’ rights to encourage agricultural growth in response to rising demands.
Shahidul Islam from the Bangladesh Resource Centre for Indigenous Knowledge (BARCIK) warned that the agricultural system in Rajshahi is under threat from climate change, which has led to increased natural disasters. He emphasized the concerning impact of climate change on water resources and agriculture, especially in the Barind tract, which faces significant food security issues.
Research conducted by Professor Chowdhury Sarwar Jahan from Rajshahi University indicated that temperature fluctuations markedly influence crop yields. While maximum temperatures positively affected some crops, minimum temperatures adversely impacted nearly all crops except Aman and Boro rice varieties. A concerning decrease in area planted for rice, sugarcane, and maize was noted, whereas there was an increase for crops like potato and wheat.
Vice-Chancellor of Varendra University, Professor Osman Gani Talukder, asserted that significant actions are necessary to mitigate the detrimental impacts of climate change on agriculture and livelihoods in the region. He argued that the ongoing climate crisis represents a genuine threat to all agricultural sectors, particularly in sectors like agriculture, livestock, and fisheries.
Professor Laila Arzuman Banu of Rajshahi University described the harsh consequences of drought, including dust storms and landscape erosion, which have hindered crop growth due to water scarcity. She mentioned that over 16,000 deep tube-wells are currently utilized to extract groundwater to support irrigation needs in the drought-prone region.
The article addresses the growing threat posed by climate change to winter crop farming in the Rajshahi region of Bangladesh. It emphasizes the need for urgent action to adapt agricultural practices to the changing climate, as traditional farming has become increasingly vulnerable. Contributions from various agricultural experts and farmers highlight the direct impacts of climate change on crop yields, water resources, and the livelihoods of the farming community, portraying a critical need for climate action and equitable support for farmers.
The repercussions of climate change are profoundly impacting winter crop production in Rajshahi, necessitating immediate and effective interventions. Farmers are advocating for their rights and for climate funding from developed nations to support their efforts. Without decisive actions to combat these climatic challenges, food security and the livelihoods of farmers in the region remain at great risk. It is imperative that stakeholders prioritize sustainable agricultural practices in the face of ongoing environmental changes.
Original Source: www.bssnews.net
