Heavy rains devastate chilli farming in Faridpur, prices surge above Tk300 per Kg

Continuous heavy rainfall has severely damaged summer chilli cultivation in Faridpur, leaving farmers facing heavy losses as large areas of farmland remain submerged. Waterlogging has caused chilli plants to rot and die, significantly reducing production and driving retail prices to Tk 280–320 per kilogram.

According to the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), chillies were cultivated on 3,112 hectares of land across the district this season, with a production target of 5,706 tonnes. However, officials say prolonged rainfall has put that target at serious risk.

The worst-hit area is Madhukhali upazila, where summer chillies were grown on around 2,720 hectares.

Upazila Agriculture Officer Mahbub Elahi said that standing water has destroyed most of the crop, and authorities are preparing a list of affected farmers for government assistance.

Farmers estimate that nearly three-quarters of the chilli fields in the upazila have been damaged, with Raipur, Jahapur, and Meghchami unions suffering the heaviest losses.

Farmer Rokonuzzaman from Raipur said all of his chilli plants were destroyed by excessive rainfall, forcing him to clear the entire field.

Another farmer, Firoz Mia, said soaring costs of seeds, fertilizer, and pesticides had already increased production expenses, and the crop losses mean he is unlikely to recover his investment.

The production shortfall has also affected local markets. Fresh green chillies are currently selling for Tk 280 to Tk 320 per kilogram at several markets in Faridpur, including Haji Shariatullah Market, Chakbazar, Tepakhola Market, and Helipad Market.

Faridpur Farmers' Association President Advocate Manik Majumdar urged the government to provide prompt compensation and rehabilitation support, warning that many farmers may abandon chilli cultivation next season if adequate assistance is not provided.