Farm waste threatens crops in Thakurgaon, farmers demand solution

Farmers of Kharibari Shalbahan area in Rajagaon union have alleged that waste discharged from a poultry farm owned by Paragon Shalbahan Limited has been damaging crops on agricultural land in Ruhia upazila of Thakurgaon.
Farmers alleged that their crop fields are facing significant damage in recent years due to the waste discharge from the farm and demanded permanent solution.
According to local farmers, crops in the area did not suffer such amount of damage in the past. 
However, the problem has intensified since a new organic fertiliser factory was recently commissioned at the farm. The farmers said compensation had been provided to some affected growers last year and in previous years. However, they said financial compensation was only a temporary measure and urged the authorities and the farm authorities to take effective steps to prevent further crop damage.
Farmers Mostafizur, Gulzar, Nasirul, Ruhul Amin and Helal said waste from the farm had affected about three acres of bitter gourd fields, leaving the crops at risk of extensive damage. After being contacted, Abdul Alim, farm manager of Paragon Shalbahan, said an agricultural officer had already inspected the affected fields following the farmers’ complaints. “Once the officer submits a detailed inspection report, necessary measures will be taken accordingly,” he said. The farm authorities are also considering seeking expert advice to identify the cause of the problem and find a permanent solution, he added.