A man is observed diligently caring for the chickens, spraying them with water as electric fans whirl to maintain a cool environment on the farm. Photo: Messenger
The ongoing heatwave in Pabna is taking a toll on the district's poultry farms, leading to a significant decrease in egg production and the unfortunate death of numerous chickens. Farmers are facing distress as their chickens succumb to the extreme heat, with many reporting that their attempts to cool down the birds are proving futile.
According to poultry farmers in the region, the heatwave is exacerbated by the tin roofs of the farms, which absorb and retain heat, making the environment unbearable for the chickens. Despite efforts to cool the chickens by spraying water multiple times a day, chickens are still dying of heatstroke. The situation is further compounded by the chickens' reduced appetite, leading to a decrease in egg production.
In Jotgacha village, located in Maligacha union of Pabna Sadar upazila, the impact of the heatwave is evident. Workers are seen busy taking care of the chickens, spraying water on them and collecting eggs, while electric fans run to try and keep the farm cool. However, these measures are not enough to prevent the chickens from suffering in the heat.
Anisur Rahman, a worker at a poultry farm in Jotgacha, reported that at least 40 chickens have died in the past week, with 8 chickens dying last Saturday alone. Despite their efforts, the chickens continue to struggle in the heat.
Jahangir Hossain, the owner of a layer chicken farm in Bahadurpur village of Chatmohar upazila, shared that they have been administering medicines and saline to the chickens and reducing their food intake as advised by the Animal Husbandry Department. These measures, however, have led to a decrease in egg production.
Zahidul Islam, a farmer from Chandbha village in Atgharia upazila, expressed his concern and frustration, saying, "I don't know how long I can continue like this." He added that the heat has made it difficult to keep the chickens alive, and he is worried about the future.
The District Livestock Officer, Gaurang Kumar Talukdar, acknowledged the issue and stated that the livestock department is providing advice to farmers on how to protect their farms from the extreme heat. This includes distributing leaflets and advising farmers to spread water on the tin roofs, sprinkle water on the chickens, and feed them more vitamin C and saline.
Messenger/Disha
