April 22, 2024 | bdnews24.com |
In Rajshahi, Bangladesh's mango hub, a severe heatwave is threatening the upcoming harvest as trees lose 20% of fruits due to extreme temperatures. The Rajshahi Fruit Research Station advises frequent irrigation to mitigate losses. The district, facing temperatures nearing 41.5°C, issued a heat alert amid rising heat-related deaths. Mango growers like Shariful Islam report premature fruit dropping and bud damage due to fog and light rain. Entaz Ali emphasizes the urgent need for rain, foreseeing reduced production and high prices. Shafiqul Islam stresses irrigation or regular spraying to save mangoes, as 20% of green mangoes have already fallen. Despite efforts, achieving the 1.2 million-tonne production target across Rajshahi, Chapainawabganj, Naogaon, and Natore seems challenging. Umme Salma of the Agricultural Extension Department urges officials to support farmers in preserving green mangoes during the heatwave.