Thousands of Bangladeshi vegetable growers are suffering financial losses as a result of blockades and strikes in the country, the Dhaka Tribune reports.
With growers in Shibpur, Belabo, Polash, Raipura and Narsingdi sadar unable to supply their products to the intended wholesalers and markets, they were forced to either saturate the local market or leave the produce to go to waste.
As a result, most have tried to sell items at prices far below production costs.
Growers from the Narsingdi district have reportedly seen high yields this season, but the political turmoil will prevent them from reaping any reward.
Industry representatives have appealed to the government to keep vehicles loaded with fresh produce out of the blockade programme and ensure security for vehicles carrying commodities such as horticulture products.
Some vehicles loaded with food items including vegetables and rice have been attacked and burnt during the blockades and strikes.
The unrest is reportedly led by Bangladesh’s main opposition party the BNP, who on Monday 16 December announced another 72-hour nationwide blockade commencing today (Tuesday 17 December) at 6am.
The party has also demanded the cancellation of the country’s general elections scheduled for 5 January next year.
