PABNA, March 31 (V7N) — Farmers in Ishwardi Upazila of Pabna are facing severe hardship due to a shortage of diesel for their agricultural machinery, prompting them to directly call the Agriculture Minister Mohammad Aminur Rashid for intervention.

Despite instructions from the minister to resolve the issue immediately, farmers claim the problem remained unresolved as of Tuesday afternoon. They said the ban on supplying oil in cans has left them unable to refuel harvesters, power tillers, irrigation machines, and sprayers, which cannot be taken to pumps.

National award‑winning farmer Moyez Uddin alias Kul Moyez said hundreds of farmers are suffering. “Diesel is required to run every machine. Without oil, crops are being ruined,” he said, adding that slips issued by the agriculture office have failed to secure supplies from pump authorities.

Another farmer, Adam Ali of Ista Mahalla, said his eight machines require 80–100 liters daily, but he is receiving only 50–60 liters every two days. “It is difficult to run even for a day with that,” he said. Farmer Zahidul Islam alias Gajar Zahid alleged that unscrupulous traders are hoarding oil, leaving ordinary farmers unable to cultivate or harvest.

In response, Upazila Agriculture Officer Abdul Momin said initiatives have been taken and some farmers have received oil. “Hopefully, everyone will receive oil from tomorrow,” he assured. UNO Hasan Mohammad Shoaib added that misunderstandings at pumps, particularly with motorcyclists, have worsened the situation, but meetings with pump owners are underway to resolve the crisis.

Farmers stressed the need for an agricultural card system to prioritize their access to essential resources like fuel. Without urgent resolution, they warned of huge losses to crops and livelihoods.

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