Sylhet: The government has announced a comprehensive support plan to assist farmers in the haor regions, who have been severely affected by recent flashfloods and the onrush of hilly water. Disaster Management and Relief Minister Asadul Habib Dulu confirmed on Tuesday that affected farmers will receive food assistance for a duration of three months.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Minister Dulu articulated this initiative during a view-exchange meeting held at the local circuit house, where he emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the haor farmers, as directed by the Prime Minister. The meeting aimed to address the challenges faced by farmers due to heavy rains that devastated boro crops in the region.
The relief ministry is devising a program to aid the farming families over the next three months, with a focus on creating accurate beneficiary lists and ensuring the timely distribution of aid. District officials have been advised to consult with local Members of Parliament in preparing these lists to ensure transparency and efficiency.
In addition, Agriculture and Fisheries and Livestock Minister Mohammad Aminur Rashid highlighted plans for a coordinated haor management program. This initiative will involve dredging haors, constructing sluice gates, and providing tools like water-compatible harvesters. Additionally, seedlings, fertilizers, and agricultural loans will be distributed to bolster the agricultural sector in these regions.
Prime Minister’s Adviser on Economic Affairs, Dr. Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir, underscored the importance of protecting the haor ecosystem and incorporating modern technologies to mitigate the impact of future disasters. Meanwhile, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister ABM Abdus Sattar announced plans for short, medium, and long-term programs aimed at developing the farmers and preserving the region’s biodiversity.
The meeting, chaired by Acting Divisional Commissioner of Sylhet Ashraful Rahman, was attended by local Members of Parliament Kalim Uddin Ahmed Milon, Nurul Islam, and Kamruzzaman Kamrul, along with local Zila Parishad Administrator Mizanur Rahman. Following the meeting, Minister Dulu inaugurated the three-month humanitarian assistance program at the Bishwambharpur upazila auditorium, further solidifying the government’s commitment to the affected farmers.