Farmers in Singra Struggle to Bring Home Harvested Paddy

Hundreds of bighas of harvested paddy are lying in the fields of Singra upazila, as waterlogged and muddy roads prevent farmers from transporting their crops home.

Located in the Chalonbil region, Singra is known as the "grain bank" of Natore. According to the Upazila Agriculture Department, 36,610 hectares were cultivated this season. While 40% has been harvested, the remaining 60% faces a high risk of damage from rising water levels and potential storms.

Farmers in Chaugram Union reported that harvested paddy has been sitting in the fields for nearly five days. "Water has submerged the dirt roads, making them too slippery for transport," said Majnu Molla, a local farmer. He noted that some of the harvested paddy is already beginning to sprout due to the damp conditions.

To mitigate the damage, farmers have built temporary earthen dams to block water from the Atrai River. However, significant portions of land in Kotuabari beel have already been submerged.

In response, Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Abdullah Al Rifat visited the affected areas on Sunday. He confirmed that emergency repairs to the roads are underway, with soil being poured to allow transport. "We are also planning to build two permanent bridges in the area once funding is allocated," he added.