By S M Zahid Hossain KHULNA, April 3, 2026 (BSS) - Farmers in the saline-prone coastal belt of Khulna are anticipating a significant profit from watermelon cultivation this season, driven by favorable market demand and increasing adoption of the crop across the region. According to the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), watermelon has been cultivated on 13,810 hectares of land this year, with an expected production of around 69 lakh tonnes. The total market value is estimated to exceed Tk 1,400 crore, while farmers are likely to earn a net profit of Tk 414.30 crore. Although the initially cultivation target was set at 18,055 hectares, it could not be achieved due to adverse natural conditions. However, officials remain optimistic about overall production and profitability. A decade ago, watermelon cultivation was uncommon in Khulna's coastal areas, where vast tracts of land remained fallow after the Aman paddy season. Traditionally, farmers relied heavily on shrimp farming due to soil salinity.  In recent years, however, many have shifted toward watermelon cultivation, encouraged by higher returns compared to conventional crops like paddy and sesame. Field visits to Koyra upazila this morning BSS reporter revealed farmers actively engaged in various stages of cultivation, including seedbed preparation, planting, and irrigation. The crop has generated considerable enthusiasm among farmers, supported by government initiatives such as the distribution of seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides at reduced prices. Local farmer Sohel Sheikh expressed hope for a good harvest, stating that he told BSS that he cultivated watermelon on 25 bighas of land with borrowed funds.  Similarly, watermelon farmer Sahabuddin Gazi and Shahadat Molla have expanded their cultivation this season, viewing watermelon farming as a reliable income source. Agricultural officials reported that farmers are growing a range of high-yielding varieties, including Dragon, Aastha, Pakija, Malik-1, and Thai Red King. If weather conditions remain favorable, yields could reach 50 to 60 tonnes per hectare. The cost of cultivation is estimated between Tk 1.5 lakh and Tk 2 lakh per hectare. In Dakop upazila, many farmers have brought previously unused lands under watermelon cultivation for the first time, attracted by its profitability and relatively low labor requirements. DAE officials noted that Khulna has emerged as the country's leading watermelon-producing region. Despite setbacks last year due to heavy rainfall and natural disasters, they are hopeful of a strong rebound this season. "Watermelon is proving to be a highly profitable crop for farmers in this region," while talking to BSS Md Rafiqul Islam, Additional Director of the Khulna DAE zone. "With favorable weather and continued support from our field officers, we expect a bumper harvest this year." The growing success of watermelon cultivation is not only boosting farmers' incomes but also creating employment opportunities across the coastal region.  

CHATTOGRAM, April 3, 2026 (BSS)- Law enforcement agencies conducted a raid in Chandanaish upazila of the district today and seized 600 liters of diesel and 200 liters of octane.  The raid was carried out by intelligence agencies NSI and DGFI in the Dewanhat area of Dohazari Municipality Thursday night.  Chandanaish Upazila Assistant Commissioner (Land) and Executive Magistrate Jhantu Bikash Chakma led the operation. According to the upazila administration, the seized oil was being transported from Dohazari to Bailtoli Yunus Market for sale at a higher price.  Md. Sayeed, son of Nur Mohammad from the market area, was found transporting the oil in four drums in a truck. Jhantu Bikash Chakma mentioned that the confiscated oil is currently stored at the Dohazari Municipality office and will be auctioned off at a later date.