Caption: A farmer is seen fervently engaged in harvesting wheat in preparation for threshing in the char area of Dhunat Upazila, Bogura. Photo: Messenger
Farmers in char areas of Dhunat Upazila in Bogura are busy harvesting and threshing wheat, and the good price of the crop in the market brings hope amidst several challenges.
The onset of the wheat threshing season marks a pivotal moment in the farming calendar, especially in the riverine char areas of the Jamuna River. These dynamic lands, characterized by their sandy terrain and vulnerability to seasonal floods, present unique challenges to the farmers who cultivate them.
The farmers, many of whom are marginal, face a daunting task during this period. With the wheat maturing, the fields attract an influx of birds, eager to feast on the ripe grains. Guarding the fields becomes a full-time job, often requiring farmers to forego rest, even after a day's hard work in the fields and at home. The added pressure of impending bad weather only compounds their worries, as they race against time to collect the wheat before the rains come.
Ramadan, a holy month of fasting and reflection for Muslims, coincides with this crucial period in the agricultural calendar. Yet, the farmers of Dhunat and neighboring Sariakandi upazila show no signs of slowing down. They can be seen working tirelessly in the fields, cutting wheat with sickles in hand, their fasts notwithstanding. Their dedication and resilience are a testament to the enduring spirit of the farming community.
Amidst these challenges, there is a glimmer of hope. Farmer Yasin Ali shares that this season's wheat yield has been significantly higher than the previous year. This news brings a sense of optimism to the community, despite the numerous hurdles they face. The farmers' primary concern now is to secure a good market price for their harvest, hoping for a profitable return on their labor and investment.
The char lands of the Jamuna river, often overlooked, tell a different story of agricultural persistence. Despite the sandy conditions and the uncertainty of the monsoon, many farmers have taken a bold step forward, cultivating wheat on these precarious lands. The threat of floods in the uplands has driven them to focus on wheat cultivation, a strategy that could either secure their livelihoods or leave them at the mercy of the elements.
As the wheat threshing work progresses, it serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate relationship between nature, human effort, and economic survival. The farmers of Dhunat and its environs embody the indomitable spirit of resilience, working tirelessly to ensure a bountiful harvest against all odds. Their story is a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit and the unyielding hope that drives us forward, even in the face of adversity.
Despite the harsh conditions and looming uncertainties, the resilience of Bogura's farmers shines through as they navigate the complexities of wheat cultivation. Their unwavering dedication to their craft and the agricultural heritage of the region underscores their commitment to ensuring a bountiful harvest despite the odds.
Messenger/Faria
