Patharghata, Mar 20 (V7N) – Thousands of potato farmers in Patharghata, Barguna district, are facing significant financial losses and dwindling interest in cultivation due to the absence of adequate cold storage facilities. Despite fertile soil and favorable weather conditions, farmers are forced to sell their produce at low prices immediately after harvest, leading to substantial waste and reduced profits.

Potato cultivation has been on the rise in this coastal region, with this year's cultivation exceeding the targeted 540 hectares, reaching 560 hectares. However, the lack of storage facilities is causing a major setback.

"Due to the lack of cold storage for storage, seasonal crops worth lakhs of taka are being wasted every year," a local farmer stated.

Farmers produce a variety of vegetables and fruits, including potatoes, sweet potatoes, ginger, chilies, tomatoes, and various fruits. However, without storage, they are compelled to sell their crops at low market rates, depriving them of fair returns.

"We have to sell these potatoes for limited profit with so much hard work, so we are losing interest in potato cultivation," said potato farmer Rahim, who cultivated potatoes on 160 percent of his land. "If we could have stored the potatoes for a few days and sold them, we could have sold them at a higher price."

Another farmer, Altaf, highlighted the price disparity, stating, "We can now sell potatoes for 18 to 20 taka per kg by cultivating potatoes. And after three to four months, we will have to buy these potatoes for 40 to 45 taka." He urged the interim government to provide mini cold storage facilities.

The Upazila Agriculture Office confirmed the high yield, with this year's production surpassing the target of 19,000 metric tons. Upazila Agriculture Officer Shawkat Hossain acknowledged the issue and stated, "If mini cold storage is arranged for storing potatoes in Patharghata, Patharghata farmers would be encouraged to cultivate potatoes and would be able to sell potatoes at the right time and at the right price."

He also mentioned that documents have been sent to the concerned department for a mini cold storage under the Kandal Crop Development Project. While some government incentives have been provided through high-yielding variety demonstrations, the lack of storage remains a critical challenge.

END/MRR/RH/