[🇧🇩] Agriculture in Bangladesh

[Saif]

FAO predicts favourable Boro harvests

Production prospects for Boro paddy, the principal rice crop in Bangladesh, remain favourable as harvests are expected to conclude this month.

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FAO predicts favourable Boro harvests

Boro accounts for about 55 percent of the annual paddy output of Bangladesh. PHOTO: AZAHAR UDDIN

Production prospects for Boro paddy, the principal rice crop in Bangladesh, remain favourable as harvests are expected to conclude this month.

The hope is based on good weather and an increase in planting by farmers in response to high domestic prices, according to a report released by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) yesterday.

The UN agency said the area planted for the 2025 Boro paddy crop, which is mostly irrigated and accounts for about 55 percent of the annual output, was estimated to be above the five-year average.

Citing satellite imagery, it said crop conditions prior to the onset of harvests last April were above average across most parts of the country, supported by favourable weather conditions.

"Increased adoption of high-yielding seed varieties contributed to boosting yields," the FAO said in its Global Information and Early Warning System (GIEWS), focusing on Bangladesh's food and agriculture.

The forecast comes at a time when the retail price of coarse rice, the benchmark variety used to track prices, has remained at over Tk 52 per kilogramme for six consecutive months since November.

The UN agency said domestic prices of rice in Dhaka, the capital city, increased steadily between October 2023 and January 2025 due to inflationary pressure and increases in the costs of production, milling, and transportation.

Since February 2025, prices have remained stable and, as of April 2025, were 8 percent higher than their levels a year earlier, even though paddy production was estimated at an above-average 6.02 crore tonnes in 2024.

This was due to large plantings and bumper yields despite crop losses caused by heavy rains and floods between May and August 2024 and the passing of Cyclone Remal in late July 2024.

Bangladesh's average paddy production was estimated at 5.71 crore tonnes over the five years to 2023, according to the FAO.

The agency said the Aus paddy crop, which accounts for about 10 percent of the annual output, is currently at the flowering and grain-filling stages, and its conditions are generally favourable in key production areas in the north and south.

Planting of the 2025 Aman paddy crop, which accounts for about 35 percent of the annual output, is underway with favourable soil moisture conditions, and harvesting is expected to start in October, it added.

Imports of rice are also predicted to increase this calendar year to 12 lakh tonnes, up from 175,000 tonnes in 2024.

Citing fiscal year 2024–25 ending this June, the UN agency forecasts Bangladesh's cereal import requirements at 90 lakh tonnes.

The amount is near the five-year average and well above the unusually low level in 2023–24, when the country's import capacity was limited by low foreign currency reserves, it said.

Bangladesh's cereal imports consist mostly of wheat, which covers 80 percent of its consumption needs, plus minor quantities of rice and maize.

The FAO predicts the country's wheat imports at a near-average 67 lakh tonnes and maize at an above-average 14 lakh tonnes, driven by steady demand for feed from the livestock and fishing industries in FY25.​

 

[Saif]

Potential of climate-smart agriculture in southern Bangladesh

Increasingly frequent cyclones, saline water intrusion, prolonged waterlogging, erratic rainfall, and rising sea levels are drastically altering the agricultural landscape in southern Bangladesh. Smarting under the adverse impact of climate change, the vulnerable coastal regions of southern Banglad

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Potential of climate-smart agriculture in southern Bangladesh

Makhan Lal Dutta
Published :
Jun 13, 2025 00:56
Updated :
Jun 13, 2025 00:56

Increasingly frequent cyclones, saline water intrusion, prolonged waterlogging, erratic rainfall, and rising sea levels are drastically altering the agricultural landscape in southern Bangladesh. Smarting under the adverse impact of climate change, the vulnerable coastal regions of southern Bangladesh comprising Khulna, Barishal, Satkhira, Bagerhat, Patuakhali, and parts of Chattogram are likely to be the worst sufferers of a possible sea-level rise. The climatic stresses, compounded by poverty and meagre infrastructure, threaten the livelihoods of millions dependent on smallholder farming. Evidently, the adoption of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) has emerged as both a necessity and a promising strategy for ensuring food security, protecting natural resources, and enabling climate resilience in this fragile ecosystem.

One of the key pillars of CSA in the south is the widespread adoption of stress-tolerant crop varieties. The Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) and the Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture (BINA) have developed several salt-tolerant rice varieties such as BRRI dhan 47, 53, 54 and BINA dhan 8, 10, and 11. These have shown notable success in saline-prone regions of Satkhira, Khulna, and Bagerhat, where traditional rice cultivation is no longer viable. Farmers have reported improved yields and lower crop failure rates notwithstanding increasing salinity levels. Similarly, flood-tolerant varieties like BRRI dhan 51 and 52 have proved useful in areas vulnerable to flash floods and prolonged inundation.

Reviving traditional knowledge, floating agriculture is re-emerging in southern districts such as Gopalganj and Bagerhat. This centuries-old method, which involves growing crops on floating beds made of water hyacinth and bamboo, is being adapted and scaled up during monsoons when fields are submerged. Vegetables like okra, cucumbers, and leafy greens are now being produced on these beds, ensuring year-round food production and dietary diversity. The innovation lies in its low cost and its potential to convert waterlogged land into productive zones, especially for landless farmers.

An innovative CSA solution gaining traction is the Integrated Floating Cage Aquageoponics System (IFCAS), developed by Bangladesh scientists. This approach combines fish farming and vegetable cultivation in floating structures, making optimal use of vertical space and enabling resource-efficient farming in submerged or shaded ponds. IFCAS has been successfully piloted in districts like Satkhira and Pirojpur, generating both nutritional and income benefits for participating households.

Water-smart technologies are also at the core of CSA. Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) is being increasingly adopted by rice farmers in regions where water is scarce or expensive. By allowing the soil to dry between irrigation cycles, AWD not only reduces irrigation water use by up to 38 per cent but also cuts methane emissions making it both economically and environmentally sound. Extension workers from BRRI and the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) have reported yield improvements of up to 15 per cent and notable reductions in fertiliser input among AWD users.

Agroforestry, another climate-smart practice, is expanding steadily in southern Bangladesh. By integrating fast-growing trees such as mango, guava, and mahogany with traditional crops like rice and vegetables, farmers benefit from improved microclimates, enhanced biodiversity, and long-term soil health. Agroforestry plots have demonstrated superior economic returns over monoculture in multiple cost-benefit analyses conducted by the Bangladesh Forest Department and FAO-supported projects. Farmers also value the added income diversification and protection from wind and salinity these trees offer.

Women, often underrepresented in formal agriculture programmes, are emerging as key agents of climate-smart transformation in southern Bangladesh. Following cyclone Aila in 2009, several rehabilitation initiatives trained women in salinity-resilient agriculture, aquaculture, and homestead gardening. Women's groups in coastal Satkhira and Barguna have since taken lead in managing fish farms and growing salt-tolerant crops like mung bean and sunflower. Their increased participation is not only improving household food security but also strengthening social cohesion and gender equity.

Several large-scale projects are currently accelerating the adoption of CSA across southern Bangladesh. One such initiative is the USAID-funded "Feed the Future Bangladesh Climate Smart Agriculture Activity," which runs from 2023 to 2028. With the goal of reaching over 900,000 farmers, the project supports the dissemination of CSA practices across 680,000 hectares of rice, 100,000 hectares of pulses, and 50,000 hectares of oilseeds. Initial monitoring reports show a 5-10 per cent yield increase across key crops and a marked reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and input use. The project also trains local agri-entrepreneurs and service providers, fostering private sector involvement in climate-resilient input and technology markets.

Other notable initiatives include the World Bank-supported Climate-Smart Agriculture and Water Management (CSAWM) programme, and the Climate Resilient Agriculture Advancement in Barind (CRAAB) project, which have together introduced climate-resilient techniques to over 35,000 farmers across Rajshahi, Patuakhali, and Barguna. These efforts focus not only on crop resilience but also on smart irrigation infrastructure, solar-powered water pumps, and localised weather forecasting services.

Despite the clear benefits, the scale-up of CSA practices faces several bottlenecks. The initial cost of installing technologies like solar irrigation, IFCAS, or improved irrigation systems can be prohibitive for smallholders without access to credit. Land fragmentation and tenure insecurity further discourage long-term investment in CSA. Additionally, gaps in extension services and the availability of quality inputs-such as certified seeds or organic fertilisers-continue to limit uptake. Market access and value chain inefficiencies also mean that farmers cannot always realise higher returns on climate-resilient crops.

To overcome these challenges, policy and institutional support must continue to evolve. The government has shown a strong commitment to CSA through strategies like the Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100 and the Climate Prosperity Plan (CPP). These long-term frameworks recognise agriculture as a frontline sector in building climate resilience. Expanding subsidies for climate-resilient inputs, providing smart financing for agri-innovation, and investing in digital advisory services are critical steps to create an enabling environment for CSA expansion.

Moreover, extensive collaboration between research institutions, NGOs, and the private sector will be vital. Digital solutions such as mobile apps offering real-time weather alerts, pest warnings, and crop advisory services could enhance farmers' decision-making and efficiency. Encouraging youth involvement through agritech startups and green entrepreneurship also offers a pathway to modernise agriculture while creating rural employment.

The southern Bangladesh, considered one of the most climate-vulnerable regions on the planet, is also becoming a testing ground for transformative agricultural innovation. Climate-Smart Agriculture offers a pragmatic, locally adapted, and inclusive solution to the multiple challenges facing the farming sector. As the country navigates the dual imperatives of economic growth and climate resilience, investing in CSA is not just a necessity, it is also a strategic opportunity to secure the future of food, water and livelihoods for the nation.

Dr. Makhan Lal Dutta is a development professional and serves as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Harvesting Knowledge Consultancy.​

 

[Saif]

Legal measures to conserve farmlands

The urgency of framing a law to safeguard farmlands from being irreversibly reduced in size due to natural causes such as river erosion as well as human actions triggering climate change cannot be overstated. Efforts to this end have been made by the land ministryin the past, for instance, in the f

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Legal measures to conserve farmlands

Published :
Jun 14, 2025 00:32
Updated :
Jun 14, 2025 00:32

The urgency of framing a law to safeguard farmlands from being irreversibly reduced in size due to natural causes such as river erosion as well as human actions triggering climate change cannot be overstated. Efforts to this end have been made by the land ministryin the past, for instance, in the form of a draft proposal, namely, the 'Land Ownership and Uses Act' , which would limit the ownership of non-agricultural land to 40 bighas (1 bigha = 33 decimals). The aim of the proposed Act was to protect agricultural land. Similar laws such as the Agricultural Land Protection and Land Zoning Act 2010 and Agricultural Land Protection and Usage Act 2016 were introduced in the past. Notably, those laws were updated and revised over time.

The High Court, too, in April 2024, recommended passing the private bill (originally tabled in parliament in March 2022) that sought steps in 2016 towards appropriate use and conservation of agricultural land. Side by side with the moves to frame laws to conserve arable land, experts also emphasised proper land management to address environmental issues and control commercial farming, particularly tobacco cultivation and shrimp culture that lead to land degradation and decline in crop yield. Concerns have been expressed during the past decades over the progressive decline in the quantity of available farmlands in the country. Meanwhile, the amount of cultivable land has been shrinking due to its transfer to non-agricultural sectors including road building, operating brick fields, housing and industrial estates. According to a Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC) document, between 1976 and 2021, i.e. in 45 years, Bangladesh lost 1.048 million hectares of land to non-agricultural use. In a similar vein, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, country's total amount of agricultural land, as of 2023, stood at 8.829 million hectares.

In a land-scarce country like Bangladesh, loss of arable land to non-farm use is no doubt a bad news for food security. Even so, production of staple crops, especially rice has about quadrupled from 10 million tonnes in 1972-73 to 39 million tonnes recently, thanks to the use of high-yielding varieties of seeds, better inputs including irrigation, fertilisers, pesticides and more efficient land use and cropping practice. But one cannot at the same time lose sight of the fact that it has all come at a cost. Because, in absence of additional fallow land, the same land is being used repeatedly to produce multiple crops. Though the application of chemical fertilizers and pesticides has helped achieve higher yields of crops, the quality of soil has been diminishing irreparably. All the scientific agricultural practices have so far contributed to breaking past record of crop yields, but the hard facts are that limited amount of land, which, again, is diminishing without a pause, cannot guarantee food security for an ever-growing size of population for a long time.

Against this not-so-reassuring background, the interim government is learnt to have promised to accelerate efforts to frame a law to protect agricultural land as well as the interests of farmers. In this connection, the Home and Agriculture Adviser, Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury during a press briefing recently has reiterated the interim government's determination to soon enact a suitable law. It is believed the incumbent administration would be up to its promise and fast track its plan to enact the law to protect agricultural lands, since its tenure in office is short.​

 

[Saif]

Dinajpur mango growers project business worth Tk 150 crore

Mango production in Dinajpur district has witnessed a huge jump with expecting to harvest about 70,000 metric tons of the juicy fruit this year...

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Dinajpur mango growers project business worth Tk 150 crore
Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha . Dinajpur 15 June, 2025, 22:25

Mango production in Dinajpur district has witnessed a huge jump with expecting to harvest about 70,000 metric tons of the juicy fruit this year.

Department of Agricultural Extension has estimated worth of Taka 150 crore of the total yields in terms of monetary value. Md Anisuzzaman, deputy director (fruits and crops) of Department of Agriculture Extension, said mangoes have been cultivated across 4,246 hectares in the district.

Last year, the formalin scare caused a collapse in the mango market, but this time the mango orchard owners have promised to produce poison-free mangoes, he added.

A vibrant mango collection and trading season is underway across the district as major wholesale markets have been set up at Kalitala and Gore-e-Shahid Boro Maidan in the town, said Md. Habibur Rahman, Assistant Director of Dinajpur Horticulture Department.

He said that mango supply to those markets had dipped during Eid-ul-Azha, but activity resumed from Saturday, with wholesalers transporting mangoes to various districts, including Dhaka.

Golam Rahman, a mango trader from Gazipur, said that he previously sourced mangoes from Chapainawabganj and Rajshahi but now prefers Dinajpur for its high-quality, poison-free produce.

According to the Horticulture Department, many residents have achieved financial success through mango cultivation. Large-scale and high-quality mango orchards have been established in Sadar, Chirirbandar, Birol, Birganj, Kaharol, Phulbari, Birampur, Ghoraghat, and Nawabganj upazilas, with Nawabganj particularly known for superior varieties.

In Bhaduria Bazar, a major mango hub, sales boosted up in post-Eid, with wholesalers loading 19 trucks and 42 pickups on Saturday alone. Leaseholder of the bazar, Shariful Islam mentioned about the strong demand in Dhaka for varieties such as Banana Mango, Bari-4, Amrapali, Mishri Bhog, Haribhanga, Katimon, and Chhatapara.

These mangoes, harvested from early Asharh (third month of Bangla calendar), are sold without formalin, gaining customer trust, he said, adding that around 50,000 seasonal workers are engaged in the mango trade, including collection, sorting, and marketing.

Rashidul Islam, a mango grower at Nashipur village of Chehelgazi union in sadar upazila, said that all the trees of his orchard witnessed excellent yields. He believes Dinajpur can significantly contribute to the national mango supply as many people here can set up such mango orchard.​

 

[Saif]

Jackfruit growers in Gazipur seek cold storage amid low prices

Known as the jackfruit centre of Bangladesh, Gazipur is home to countless jackfruit trees

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Jackfruit growers in Gazipur seek cold storage amid low prices

Photo: STAR

Jackfruit growers in Gazipur are failing to get fair prices for their produce this season and are demanding cold storage facilities to prevent losses.

Known as the jackfruit centre of Bangladesh, Gazipur is home to countless jackfruit trees that can be seen in the courtyards, open spaces, and fields in both urban and rural areas.

However, growers say the lack of market access and storage infrastructure is preventing them from benefiting from good harvests.

During visits to Kapasia and Sreepur upazilas, jackfruits were found hanging abundantly from trees, unaffected by recent monsoon rains that damaged other fruits such as mangoes and litchis.

Atiqul Islam, a 50 year old farmer from Narayanpur village in Kapasia, said he owns over 50 jackfruit trees, all of which are bearing fruit this year.

"The fruits are starting to ripen, but wholesalers have yet to arrive. I hear heavy rain has delayed traders from Sylhet. Some buyers come, but they offer just Tk 5 to 10 per jackfruit," he said.

Ameena Khatun, a housewife from Amraid village, said she recently sold 14 large jackfruits for only Tk 400.

"I thought I could sell them for at least Tk 1,000. The trees are useful for feeding goats throughout the year, but now I use the fruit as cow fodder. I only keep the seeds for cooking," she said.

Kabir Hossain of Targaon village said he spent Tk 60 to bring two jackfruits to the Kapasia market, where he sold them for just Tk 150.

"Even though jackfruit is our national fruit, it has no value here," he added.

Local trader Jasim Mia said low demand is depressing prices, though he occasionally purchases fruit directly from gardens.

Gazipur's Deputy Assistant Agriculture Officer Mohammad Golam Mostafa said jackfruit is cultivated on 9,103 hectares in the district.

He confirmed that a proposal for cold storage has been submitted, and construction will begin once land is allocated.​

 

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'Bangladesh holds strategic significance in Bayer's growth map'

The Better Life Farming (BLF) initiative is a key global effort aimed at achieving this goal. Bangladesh is a key target country for Bayer’s BLF initiative, which is rapidly expanding its reach within the country, said Simon-Thorsten Wiebusch, Cluster Head, Bayer CropScience, India, Banglades

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

'Bangladesh holds strategic significance in Bayer's growth map'

FE Online
Published :
Jun 18, 2025 18:13
Updated :
Jun 18, 2025 18:13

Simon-Thorsten Wiebusch, Cluster Head of Bayer CropScience for India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka (right), is discussing with Md. Fazlur Rahman, Chairman of BCIC and Bayer CropScience Ltd, Bangladesh (middle), and Zahidul Islam, Managing Director of Bayer CropScience Ltd (left)

The Better Life Farming (BLF) initiative is a key global effort aimed at achieving this goal. Bangladesh is a key target country for Bayer’s BLF initiative, which is rapidly expanding its reach within the country, said Simon-Thorsten Wiebusch, Cluster Head, Bayer CropScience, India, Bangladesh & Sri Lanka (IBSL), during an interview with The Financial Express. Text of the interview follows:

Question (Q): Mr Wiebusch, how does Bayer view Bangladesh in terms of its agricultural market potential within the South Asia region?

Answer (A): Agriculture in Bangladesh has tremendous potential. Its large population and rising demand for food has created a significant opportunity for innovative solutions. The country’s strong agricultural backbone aligns with Bayer’s mission to transform farming through technology, productivity, and sustainability.

Q: What potential do you see in the Bangladeshi agricultural sector for Bayer's future growth?

A: Bangladesh has a young, dynamic farming community that’s increasingly open to adopting new technologies. The government is investing in modernizing agriculture, which creates opportunities for Bayer to introduce high-yield seeds, crop protection products, and digital farming tools. There’s also significant potential in areas like climate-resilient agriculture and precision farming.

Q: What is Bayer’s mid-to-long-term plan for Bangladesh?

A: Our plan is focused on expanding our footprint in Bangladesh by deepening farmer outreach, introducing new innovations, and building stronger local partnerships. We aim to bring more hybrid seeds, invest in training programs,advance agronomic practices by combining seeds, best crop protection solutions and ensuring soil health to ensure regenerative agriculture in Bangladesh.. Additionally, we're exploring collaborations with startups and Agri-tech platforms to accelerate digital transformation— all with the broader goal of meeting the growing need for nutritional security for 220 Million Bangladeshi's, while also enabling potential export opportunities in the future.

Q: Operating in a new market often comes with unique challenges. What has Bayer’s experience been in Bangladesh?

A: Every market has its own nuances and challenges. In Bangladesh, the opportunities far outweigh the challenges and with strong cooperation from the government and local stakeholders we are confident of overcoming the challenges. Our focus is on building long-term relationships rooted in trust, transparency, and shared value.

Q: Can you highlight some of Bayer’s ongoing initiatives that are making a difference in Bangladesh?

A: Certainly. We’ve launched farmer education programs focused on safe and effective use of crop protection solutions. Bayer has also initiated collaborations to support women in agriculture and promote sustainable practices. Our product portfolio is being continuously expanded to ensure farmers have access to the best inputs available. One such very successful initiative are the Better Life Farming centres set up by Bayer in Bangladesh.Bayer has set an SDG goal to empower 100 million smallholder farmers worldwide by 2030. The Better Life Farming (BLF) initiative is a key global effort aimed at achieving this goal. Bangladesh is a key target country for Bayer’s BLF initiative, which is rapidly expanding its reach within the country.

The BLF initiative seeks to enhance the income and living standards of smallholder farmers by providing holistic solutions both on and off the crop field, primarily through increased yields and the smart utilization of resources. With approximately 1,000 BLF centers nationwide, Bayer is connecting with smallholder farmers to offer innovative crop protection solutions and high-yield hybrid seeds. We also share knowledge of modern agricultural technology through extensive training sessions, result demonstrations, and method showcases led by dedicated agronomists.

As part of Bayer’s stewardship commitment, BLF promotes the safe use of pesticides among farmers. Additionally, we are exploring collaborations with technology, nutrient, and other industries to address needs beyond quality seeds and crop protection solutions.

Q: What kind of support or policy framework would you like to see from the Bangladesh government to encourage further investment?

A: A stable and predictable regulatory environment is key. We also welcome policies that encourage innovation, protect intellectual property, and support digital infrastructure in rural areas. Public-private partnerships, faster registration of new products and technologies and increased investment in agri-research will further boost the confidence of large and established companies like Bayer.​

 

[Saif]

Govt needs to take measures to stop farmland loss

A GRADUAL loss of agricultural land poses a threat to food security. A Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics survey report says that farmland has been eroded by 3.75 per cent over eight years. The survey, covering 2015–2023 and highlighting some critical environmental and climate issues, says that a...

www.newagebd.net

Govt needs to take measures to stop farmland loss
24 June, 2025, 00:00

A GRADUAL loss of agricultural land poses a threat to food security. A Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics survey report says that farmland has been eroded by 3.75 per cent over eight years. The survey, covering 2015–2023 and highlighting some critical environmental and climate issues, says that a lack of commitment to saving farmland and rapid, unplanned urbanisation are mainly responsible for the loss. The survey also says that natural forest cover has decreased by 5.41 per cent in the period although there has been a 27.36 per cent increase in planted forests. The loss of farmland and natural forests has a direct impact on food production and food security. The gradual loss will only exacerbate the already fragile food security. Bangladesh slipped by three notches in the Global Hunger Index 2024 and ranked 84th among 127 nations. The alarming state of farmland loss came to light in a number of studies too, but the authorities appear to have taken little effective measures to save agricultural land.

The Agricultural Census 2019, for instance, shows that net cultivable land had decreased by 2 per cent over a decade. The decline has for long been a matter of concern as the economy still heavily relies on agricultural production and unplanned industrialisation along with the unauthorised conversion of farmland for commercial use continues unchecked. Experts point out that ambiguities in land use legislation, coupled with weak enforcement, are a major contributing factor to the steady loss of farmland. Enacting an effective law is, therefore, an essential first step towards a better land governance. Legislation alone, however, cannot effectively halt the destruction of arable land. Reports have documented cases where influential individuals or groups have repurposed farmland for commercial ventures in violation of laws and regulations while the authorities have largely remained indifferent. The widespread loss of topsoil because of illegal brick kilns is another known issue. A previous study estimates that around 25 billion bricks are produced annually using conventional methods that destroy about 100 million tonnes of topsoil. The government has not only failed to curb the commercial misuse of agricultural land but has in many instances undertaken development projects that have caused the destruction of farmland.

The government should, therefore, take the issue of farmland loss and associated risks of food insecurity seriously and take early steps to amend laws and rework policies. The government needs to take action against industrial establishments and brick kilns illegally built on agricultural land and review the land use policy to stop its development projects that destroy farmland.​

 

[Saif]

How to ensure a transparent rice supply chain

Food on the plate is the very first thing people need every day, and with rice being the staple, its price is a matter of overriding concern for the general public. When rice prices soar, the poor and low-income people become more food insecure. A steady rise in rice prices has already forced this

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

How to ensure a transparent rice supply chain

Atiqul Kabir Tuhin
Published :
Jun 25, 2025 23:49
Updated :
Jun 25, 2025 23:49

Food on the plate is the very first thing people need every day, and with rice being the staple, its price is a matter of overriding concern for the general public. When rice prices soar, the poor and low-income people become more food insecure. A steady rise in rice prices has already forced this low-income people to spend a disproportionate share of their earnings on rice alone, cutting back on fish, meat, and other vital sources of protein. As such, rice price is a major public concern and a particularly sensitive issue.

Yet the rice market remains highly vulnerable to manipulation, dominated by large millers and traders. This syndicate exploits the system for windfall profits by hoarding and creating artificial shortages. On one hand, they short-change farmers, leaving them barely able to recover production costs; on the other, they charge consumers exorbitantly high prices.

Large millers exert control over virtually every stage of the supply chain, from the initial procurement of paddy and its subsequent processing, storage to the final stages of distribution to wholesalers and retailers. This monopoly has created a fertile ground for market distortions.

For example, in this Boro season, large millers have purchased paddy from farmers at low prices before Eid, stored it in warehouses, and are now raising prices under various pretexts. Over the past week, rice prices have soared by Tk 2 to 8 per kilogram, despite the bumper harvest and adequate stock. According to the Department of Agricultural Extension, a record 21.4 million tonnes of Boro paddy have been harvested from 0.48 million hectares of land. So the question is, why is this sudden price hike in spite of the good harvest and adequate stock?

To curb persistent inflation, the government has been pursuing a contractionary monetary policy since assuming office about 10 months back. Besides, over 200 traders were given permission to import rice and the import duties were substantially waived. And yet, despite these significant initiatives, there has been little to no reflection of their intended impact on the rice market. Even though the overall inflation trend shows a modest downward trajectory and prices for most other consumer items have begun to cool, rice remains an exception. A brief, modest decline was indeed observed in the past month, largely due to the peak Boro harvesting season. However, as soon as the newly harvested rice left the hands of farmers and entered the supply chain, millers began increasing prices. This has been a recurring issue for years, and it is time to establish much-needed transparency and accountability in this murky supply chain.

In order to do so, the policymakers can consider establishing a comprehensive and integrated rice supply network which would create a system of transparency and accountability. It could begin with a mandatory, dedicated rice supply chain registration and licensing system. Every single actor involved in the rice supply chain, from the individual farmer who sells directly to the market in large quantities, to intermediaries like wholesalers, millers, traders, dealers, and hoarders, and finally to large-scale retailers, would be legally required to hold a specific license to deal in rice. Only licensed individuals or entities would be permitted to engage in any rice-related trade activity, whether it's processing, large-scale storage, or marketing. Robust mechanisms should be established to collect and maintain accurate, up-to-date data on all license holders, including their legal identity, operational capacity (e.g., milling capacity, storage capacity), geographic location, and business history. All this comprehensive license holder data would be centrally stored at the upazila and district level for localised monitoring.

Besides, all the millers and traders throughout the supply chain should be mandated to submit weekly updates regarding their current stock levels of paddy and rice, volumes produced or processed, utilisation of their licensed storage capacity, purchase and selling prices, and total sales volumes from the preceding week. These weekly reports should be submitted directly to the respective Deputy Commissioner's office, which would be responsible for receiving, verifying, and analysing this data. Such frequent data submission would allow for the early detection of unusual spikes in stock levels that could flag potential hoarding. This constant scrutiny would also act as a powerful deterrent against illegal stockpiling outside registered capacities, making it difficult for unscrupulous entities to manipulate supply or prices without detection. Furthermore, real-time data on supply, demand, and prices would enable the government to make more informed decisions regarding imports, exports, and market interventions.

While some consumer protection measures currently exist at the retail level, they are insufficient to oversee the entire complex supply chain. Department of Consumer Rights Protection (DCRP) will have to play a pivotal role, coordinating closely with district administrations. They will have to regularly inspect the licensed warehouses to verify reported stock levels against actual inventory, cross-check their transaction documents, and ensure full compliance with all licensing rules and reporting requirements.

Lastly, it will require strong collaboration among relevant ministries, particularly the Ministry of Food, the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Commerce. Through such a unified, inter-ministerial approach, the rice supply chain can be managed in a coherent manner, rather than the current fragmented system. This will pave the way for a transparent supply chain.

Ultimately, the successful implementation of such a unified licensing and monitoring framework can dramatically improve transparency and eliminate entrenched malpractice in the rice market. A transparent supply chain is not only essential for protecting consumers and farmers but also a necessary step towards ensuring food security and good governance.​

 

[Saif]

Bina-5 sesame a new hope for farmers

BINA-5 sesame variety has raised hope among farmers in the district and elsewhere in the country, as the crop grows aplenty and makes huge profit in a short duration. According to sources at the BINA Magura sub-centre, BINA-5 sesame is high yielding compared to common variety. The production of BI

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Bina-5 sesame a new hope for farmers

OUR CORRESPONDENT
Published :
Jun 26, 2025 09:37
Updated :
Jun 26, 2025 09:37

BINA-5 sesame variety has raised hope among farmers in the district and elsewhere in the country, as the crop grows aplenty and makes huge profit in a short duration.

According to sources at the BINA Magura sub-centre, BINA-5 sesame is high yielding compared to common variety. The production of BINA 5 sesame in a short duration is 1.5 tonnes per hectares.

The variety of sesame grows in a short duration. BINA- 5 variety takes only 80 to 85 days from cultivation to harvest while 95 to 100 days in common variety. Sesame is highly vulnerable to water logging.

But BINA-5 sesame is temporary waterlogging tolerant. Moreover, this variety is less vulnerable to insect attack compared to common variety. The market price of BINA-5 variety is higher compared to common variety.

Shankar Sarkar, a farmer of village Shibrampur under Magura Sadar upazila, told the FE, "I have harvested my BINA 5 sesame. I have achieve about 15 maunds per bigha while other farmers who have cultivated local variety have achieved only 9 to 10 maunds. Moreover, my production cost was lower than that of them."

Another farmer, Ashim Biswas of village Shibrampur under Magura Sadar upazila, said this year most of the sesame lands in our village faced waterlogging for 3 to 4 days. Water logging has destroyed most of the lands.

"But my land did not face damage due to water logging as I cultivated BINA 5 variety. Moreover I have got higher price from my sea sum compared to other farmers who cultivated common variety."​

 

[Saif]

Most farmland far below optimal productivity

Bangladesh leaves 56 per cent of agricultural land below productivity trajectory while only 1.2 per cent catches up desired level of production with the highest output, although the country meets food deficit with imports. An official survey shows such stark paradox in farmland productivity and fo

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

LAND-SCANT BANGLADESH LEAVES AGRO-POTENTIAL UNDERUTILISED
Most farmland far below optimal productivity

FE REPORT
Published :
Jul 01, 2025 00:02
Updated :
Jul 01, 2025 00:02

Bangladesh leaves 56 per cent of agricultural land below productivity trajectory while only 1.2 per cent catches up desired level of production with the highest output, although the country meets food deficit with imports.

An official survey shows such stark paradox in farmland productivity and food insecurity in many agro-households across the country.

The country's 44.37 per cent of farmlands are at the desired and acceptable level of productivity while 55.63 per cent are still under unsustainable level in terms of their annual output value per hectare, the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) survey divulges.

The report on its findings, published Monday, further shows the agricultural lands in the urban areas are on the highest level of un-productivity, accounting for 65.48 per cent, compared to the rural areas (54.78 per cent).

Meanwhile, the wage structures among the agricultural workers "are still in a shambles as 39.88 per cent of them don't get paid even at the level of country standard", the BBS report reads.

The nation's statistical agency conducted the 'Productive and Sustainable Agriculture Survey 2025' with samples taken from 15,600 agricultural households and 722 farms across the country.

The BBS survey unveils that the lands in Rajshahi, Rangpur, Khulna and Mymensingh divisions are "in a better position in productivity and risk-mitigation factors" compared to the rest of the divisions across Bangladesh.

In the above-mentioned category, the sustainability rates in Rajshahi, Rangpur, Khulna and Mymensingh divisions are 78.96 per cent, 85.55 per cent, 69.54 per cent and 70.95 per cent respectively-higher than the national average of 69.16 per cent.

According to the survey, Bangladesh's farmers are very much bent on utilising pesticides and fertilisers.

It shows 43.05-percent farmers still use fertilisers without maintaining proper guideline while 48.63 per cent use pesticides in more than a desired level.

The farmers in Mymensingh division use the highest level of fertilisers at 64.05 per cent while Rangpur runs high on pesticide usages at a 63.78-percent rate.

On the other hand, the farmers in Rajshahi and Chittagong divisions use the lowest doses of pesticides at 35.82 per cent and 35.18 per cent.

The rate of fertiliser use is lower in Rangpur and Sylhet divisions (32.79 per cent and 30.53 per cent).

According to the findings, 28.95 per cent of farmers are still not maintaining agro-biodiversity-supportive practices as they produce only one crop in the same land every year.

"A total of 18.34 per cent of agricultural lands still do not get water supply properly as the country's irrigation system still fails to cover them," says the report.

In terms of soil degradation, 27.25 per cent of the agricultural households belong to those lands where more than 50-percent agricultural soils are degrading annually.

On the food-security scale, the BBS shows an overwhelming 81.11 per cent of agro-households have mild food insecurity, 17.72-percent HHs have "acceptable food insecurity" and 1.17-percent HHs are in severe food insecurity.

The country had to import 4.93 million metric tonnes of food-grains under public and private sectors in the financial year 2022-23 to feed the people who do not have enough.

The report-launching ceremony was addressed by Statistics and Informatics Division Secretary Aleya Akter, its Additional Secretary Masud Rana Chowdhury, Agriculture Ministry Additional Secretary Mahbubul Haque Patwary and BBS Project Director Md Rafiqul Islam. BBS Director- General Mizanur Rahman chaired the function.​

 

[Saif]

Introducing innovative farming practices

The country's agriculture has come a long way off, thanks to some remarkable research and experiments with cereals and other crops. But still farm practices in general are yet to be smart enough to turn farmlands economically sustainable. A survey titled "Productive and Sustainable Agriculture Surv

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Introducing innovative farming practices

Published :
Jul 02, 2025 22:35
Updated :
Jul 02, 2025 22:35

The country's agriculture has come a long way off, thanks to some remarkable research and experiments with cereals and other crops. But still farm practices in general are yet to be smart enough to turn farmlands economically sustainable. A survey titled "Productive and Sustainable Agriculture Survey 2025" carried out by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) corroborates this lapse in farming. The study finds that only 1.2 per cent of agricultural land in the country yields the optimal level of output, 44.37 per cent has acceptable or adequate level of productivity and the major portion of land comprising 55.63 per cent has production far below the sustainable level. Still more worrying is the fact that the problem of land degradation occurring at the rate of 50 per cent is encountered by as high as 27.25 per cent agricultural households. The prospect is not only bleak for those families because of this high rate of land degradation, it also unfolds a spectre of fast shrinkage of agricultural land and its attendant ills of displacement of a large number of people and their food insecurity.

Admittedly, the country is not under an immediate threat of falling short of the required land areas for production of enough foods to feed its people. Both the 44.37 per cent and the 55.63 per cent of lands now yielding acceptable and below par level of crops respectively can be improved to a large extent for augmenting production. Even with the existing research results and technological innovation achieved by agricultural scientists of the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) and the Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) along with other such universities and institutes can bring about a change for the better. There has been a kind of inertia on the part of policy formulators in implementing the laboratory knowledge and findings at the field level. However, a new breed of educated young people has come forward to adopt the latest models of agriculture. Although they are a few in number, these new generation of farmers is changing the agricultural map of the country.

How they are doing it? It is quite simple. Bio-diversity-supported agricultural practices they have opted for simply to provide the boost agriculture here needs. Apps-driven irrigation, fertiliser and pesticide use--- with drone replacing manual practice and monitoring crops' health--- have already brought about a paradigm shift in the country's agriculture. The knowledge and technology are there but reaching those to farmers at the field level is what proves highly challenging. But such smart ways of farming economise on irrigation and inputs such as improved seeds including salinity and heat-tolerant varieties, fertiliser and pesticides by determining their correct amounts.

So, to take agriculture to the next level, the latest innovative practices of farming has to be made familiar to even unlettered farmers. Sure enough, there is a need for big investment if a farmer wants to adopt the latest agricultural practices. It is exactly at this point the policymakers have to think out of the box. How to bring small agricultural plot holders under the coverage of smart practice? If farmers' cooperatives are formed and the government provides the machines, tools and devices for payment of prices in instalments, the initiatives will certainly take off. Alongside this, there is a need for directing research focus on stalling extensive land degradation.​

 

[Saif]

Eco-friendly storage units helping farmers preserve potatoes

This season, marginal farmers in eight districts of Rangpur division have stored a total of 6,775 tonnes of potatoes in 394 non-refrigerated model storage units established with support from the Department of Agricultural Marketing under the Ministry of Agriculture..These locally built sto

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Eco-friendly storage units helping farmers preserve potatoes

Photo: S Dilip Roy

This season, marginal farmers in eight districts of Rangpur division have stored a total of 6,775 tonnes of potatoes in 394 non-refrigerated model storage units established with support from the Department of Agricultural Marketing under the Ministry of Agriculture.

These locally built storage units, constructed using indigenous technology, are being hailed by northern farmers as a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to cold storages. Each unit cost Tk 1,76,000 to construct and can store up to 30 tonnes of potatoes. These are electricity-free, eco-friendly, and durable.

According to the Department of Agricultural Marketing, the district-wise storage data is as follows: 2,702 tonnes stored in Rangpur's 121 houses, 1,408 tonnes in Dinajpur's 75 houses, 1,032 tonnes in Lalmonirhat's 37 houses, 637 tonnes in Thakurgaon's 47 houses, 341 tonnes in Panchagarh's 38 houses, 327 tonnes in Kurigram's 24 houses, 193 tonnes in Nilphamari's 36 houses, and 115 tonnes in Gaibandha's 16 houses.

Meanwhile, the Department of Agricultural Extension reported that 2,25,985 hectares of land in the division yielded 58.68 lakh tonnes of potatoes this year. Of this, 11.09 lakh tonnes have been stored in 116 cold storages.

Abdul Khalek, 60, a farmer from Komolabari village in Lalmonirhat's Aditmari upazila, said, "Ten of us small farmers together stored 27 tonnes of potatoes in one of these model houses. We plan to sell when market prices go up. This facility was provided to us free of cost by the Department of Agricultural Marketing."

Nazrul Islam, 56, of Bishbari village shared, "The house has bamboo shelves inside. We stored our potatoes without using any sacks. I harvested a small quantity and couldn't secure space in a cold storage. This model house saved the day."

The Department of Agricultural Marketing said each house is expected to last 15 to 20 years, with only minor maintenance needed every three to four years, which farmers can manage collectively by raising small funds.

NM Alamgir Badsha, deputy director of the Rangpur divisional office of the Department of Agricultural Marketing, said, "Since most marginal farmers can't afford cold storages, these model houses allow them to preserve their produce and sell later at fair prices. It's proving to be a highly successful initiative. We plan to expand this further in the future."​

 

[Saif]

How AI can forecast rice market shocks in Bangladesh

Ai can be used to anticipate and manage rice price surge better.

www.thedailystar.net

How AI can forecast rice market shocks in Bangladesh

Bangladesh should pilot AI forecasting systems in key rice-surplus districts such as Naogaon, Bogura, and Jessore. FILE PHOTO: MOSTAFA SABUJ

Rice accounts for about 60 percent of daily caloric intake in Bangladesh and occupies approximately 76 percent of the total cropped land. Despite consistently producing around 39 million metric tonnes of rice annually, the country's rice markets remain vulnerable to sudden price surges. These disruptions are often driven not by production shortfalls but by supply chain bottlenecks or environmental stresses.

For example, in August 2023, coarse rice prices surged by 13 percent in just one month, even though production remained stable and Aman harvest output surpassed the previous year's by 500,000 tonnes. These shocks disproportionately affect poorer households, where even a Tk 2 per kg rise significantly impacts food budgets.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers a powerful tool for anticipating and managing these shocks. Ensemble learning models such as gradient boosting, CatBoost, and XGBoost have demonstrated exceptional performance in forecasting rice yields in Bangladesh, with R-square values nearing 0.99 (the higher the R-square, the better a model fits the data). In contrast, rice price forecasting is more complex. Models like Vector Autoregression (VAR), used in markets such as Malaysia, show R-square values between 0.60 and 0.80, reflecting moderate explanatory power. Time series approaches such as ARIMA, applied to Bangladeshi data, have shown promise in predicting yields but limited applicability to price dynamics.

AI systems that integrate environmental variables—rainfall, temperature, and wind speed—can help forecast potential price disruptions. Satellite-based AI pilots in Southeast Asia have successfully detected crop stress up to two weeks before visible signs appear, allowing for earlier intervention. Similar systems in Bangladesh could prompt timely responses, such as adjusting public procurement or releasing food reserves, before prices escalate uncontrollably. This proactive approach can play a crucial role in stabilising the rice market, particularly during climate- or logistics-related uncertainties.

However, the successful implementation of AI in agriculture faces structural challenges. Wetland areas such as haor and char lack reliable internet connectivity, hindering real-time data collection. According to a report by The Daily Star, only 37.8 percent of rural residents in Bangladesh use internet, compared to 68.4 percent in urban areas. This stark rural-urban digital divide significantly limits AI adoption.

Price data at the district level is often collected manually or inconsistently, which reduces model training accuracy. In Bangladesh, and more broadly across South Asia and Africa, tech-driven agriculture is hindered by limited digital literacy, inadequate technical training, and poor data-quality awareness among farmers and officials. This shortage is recognised as a "key barrier" to the effective use of AI: officials cannot interpret models, lack trust in forecasts, and therefore underutilise them. Addressing these foundational issues is essential for any AI-driven solution to have a real impact.

To move forward, Bangladesh should pilot AI forecasting systems in key rice-surplus districts such as Naogaon, Bogura, and Jessore—regions where rice dominates local GDP. Extension offices could be equipped with tablets and dashboards to access real-time AI alerts. At the national level, a unified digital rice price database with real-time feeds from wholesale markets would vastly enhance model accuracy. Equipping local officials and traders with the knowledge to act on such signals would enable them to incorporate AI insights into market-level decisions.

By combining machine learning with real-time data and institutional readiness, AI can help the country move from reactive crisis management to forward-looking food policy. Rice in every table, every household stands to benefit when markets are predictable, prices are fair, and intelligent systems guide national food security.

Ellin Ahmed is a finance major at the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) department of North South University.​

 

[Saif]

Crops on 78,000 hectares of land under water

Heavy rains have inundated vast stretches of farmland across 21 districts in Barishal, Khulna, Chattogram and Dhaka divisions, leaving thousands of farmers devastated as crops and fish enclosures were washed away over the past week.

www.thedailystar.net

Crops on 78,000 hectares of land under water
Torrential rains devastate coastal farmlands

Heavy rains have inundated vast stretches of farmland across 21 districts in Barishal, Khulna, Chattogram and Dhaka divisions, leaving thousands of farmers devastated as crops and fish enclosures were washed away over the past week.

According to the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), weeklong torrential rains initially submerged 1.36 lakh hectares of cropland, including Aush paddy, Aman seedbeds, and seasonal vegetables, as of July 8.

I cultivated Aus paddy on three acres of land with a loan from the bank. I also prepared 30kg of paddy seedbeds there. All of it has been submerged— Abdus Shahid A farmer from Feni.

The affected area decreased to 78,173 hectares by yesterday evening.

Md Jamal Uddin, additional director of monitoring and implementation at the DAE's field service wing, said temporary waterlogging has occurred in the 21 districts due to very heavy rainfall across the country.

He said crops including Aush paddy, Aman seedbeds, bona Aman, jute, vegetables, fruit orchards, betel leaf, watermelon, and others have been submerged.

The affected districts include Cumilla, Chandpur, Brahmanbaria, Chattogram, Cox's Bazar, Noakhali, Feni, Lakshmipur, Khagrachari, Pabna, Khulna, Bagerhat, Satkhira, Narail, Barishal, Pirojpur, Jhalokathi, Patuakhali, Barguna, Bhola, and Shariatpur.

With the reduction in rainfall, water levels are gradually receding, and the submerged areas are declining, Jamal said. A final assessment of the damage to the crops will be possible once the water fully drains in the coming days.

Among the affected areas are 44,662 hectares of Aush, 14,393 hectares of transplanted Aman, 135 hectares of jute, 9,673 hectares of vegetables, 114 hectares of bananas, 293 hectares of papaya, 387 hectares of betel leaf, 297 hectares of broadcast Aman, 104 hectares of chilli, and 281 hectares of summer watermelons.

Many fish enclosures, especially in Noakhali and Khulna, have also been washed away, said local fish farmers and officials.

The Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre (FFWC) said an active monsoon and a low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal are causing heavy rainfall in the coastal regions, which is expected to continue for another three to five days -- deepening farmers' worries. The downpour has already pushed up vegetable prices in local markets.

"I cultivated Aush paddy on three acres of land with a bank loan. I also prepared 30kg of paddy seedbeds there. All of it has been submerged by the rain in the last few days," said Abdus Shahid, a farmer from Fazilpur village in Sadar upazila. "I had hoped to harvest this paddy, keep some for my family, and sell the rest to repay the loan. But the rain has washed away all my dreams. I am now helpless."

Abul Kashem of Mukimpur village said his one and a half acres of Aush paddy, 100 sacks of ginger, a papaya orchard, and 30 decimals of Aman seedbeds are under four to five feet of water.

At New Market, Natun Bazar, Puran Bazar, and Kalatala Bazar in Patuakhali town yesterday, prices of most vegetables increased by Tk 10-20 per kg compared to last week. Green chilli prices more than doubled from Tk 120-150 per kg last week to Tk 320-350.

Green papaya was being sold at Tk 30 per kg, bottle gourd Tk 60–70, coriander leaves Tk 200, sweet pumpkin Tk 30, brinjal Tk 90-100, cucumber Tk 30-35, carrots Tk 100-150, bitter gourd Tk 60-65, and snake gourd Tk 35-40.

Saiful Islam, a vegetable seller in Pirojpur town, said, "You'll have to pay Tk 50–70 for any variety of vegetable. Supplies from Bagerhat and Khulna have dropped, pushing prices up."

In the same area, fish farmer Mannan Sheikh said, "There is too much water in the canals. The sluice gate in Orjakhali is closed, and the embankment built at Badhal Bazar for dredging the Bishkhali river has worsened the flooding."

Rampal upazila in Bagerhat district has also been hit hard. "I had fries in my seven-bigha enclosure. The sudden rise in water washed everything away. Recovering from this loss will be extremely difficult," said shrimp farmer Abu Huraira from Chakshree village.

Harunur Rashid, another shrimp farmer, said, "The embankments of all the ponds have broken due to incessant rain. I've lost over Tk 5 lakh. I can't afford to buy fries and start again."

Md Badiuzzaman, Khulna district fisheries officer, said the full extent of damage is still being assessed. However, several shrimp enclosures in Paikgachha upazila have been flooded. According to farmers, fish worth nearly Tk 4 crore have been lost.

Asked about livestock damages, officials from the Department of Livestock Services (DLS) said so far, 16 unions across eight districts -- Barishal, Bhola, Pirojpur, Jhalakathi, Patuakhali, Barguna, Feni, and Lakshmipur -- have reported damage to around 4,900 cows and buffaloes, and 992 goats and sheep.

Md Abu Sufiun, DLS director general, said approximately 25,342 poultry farms have also been significantly affected. "About 30,000 ducks, chickens, and cows have already been vaccinated," he added. The total estimated livestock loss stands at Tk 98 crore so far, though it is still a preliminary figure.

The FFWC bulletin noted that the water levels of the Muhuri and Selonia rivers in Feni are now flowing below the danger level. Meanwhile, the water of the Teesta, Dharla, Surma, Kushiyara, Ganges-Padma, and Brahmaputra-Jamuna are rising but still below the danger mark.

The forecast warns of further moderate to heavy rain in the next three to five days, which could worsen the flood situation.​