Photo: BSS

PATUAKHALI, March 3, 2026 (BSS) - The southern district of Patuakhali is witnessing a vibrant surge in watermelon cultivation across its sprawling char lands, with trade this season projected to reach Taka 300-350 crore.

During the Ramadan, farmers across the district are racing to prepare their produce for market, aiming to capitalize on high early-season demand. 

Agricultural officials estimate that watermelon sales alone could account for nearly Taka 200 crore, while associated sectors-- including seeds, fertilizers, transport and labor-- will further expand the local economic cycle.

The district's unique geographical setting, surrounded by rivers and the sea, provides ideal conditions for watermelon cultivation. Newly-emerged char areas along the banks of the Tentulia River have become hubs of seasonal farming activity.

Rows of thriving watermelon vines stretch across the chars of Chandradwip union in Bauphal upazila, visible even from passing trawlers. Similar scenes can be found in Charshaula of Kalaiya union, where farmers are busy maintaining crops and preparing for advance harvesting to meet Ramadan demand.

Local farmer MA Hannan of Kalaiya said watermelon has become a highly profitable crop in recent years. Encouraged by favorable prices last season, he expanded cultivation this year.

"Unless there is a major natural disaster, the risk of loss is minimal. Only hailstorms or strong winds could cause damage," he said.

Md. Shaheen Mridha of Chandradwip union has cultivated watermelons on 30 acres of land. He plans to begin selling in the second week of Ramadan and expressed hope for satisfactory profits if market prices remain stable.

Another farmer, Abdul Jabbar Akon, noted that watermelon has become the preferred crop for most farmers in the area due to its high yield and strong cash returns. Locals estimate that nearly 20,000 acres of land in Chandradwip union alone are under watermelon cultivation this season.

Beyond Bauphal, cultivation has expanded significantly in Rangabali, Galachipa, Dashmina and Kalapara upazilas. Large tracts of char lands in Mirzaganj and Sadar upazilas are also now dedicated to watermelon farming.

According to the District Agricultural Extension Department, watermelon was cultivated on 27,350 hectares of land last year. This year, the figure has increased to 34,480 hectares, raising expectations of a substantial boost in overall production.

Deputy Director of the Department Agriculturist Dr. Md. Amanul Islam expressed optimism about exceeding trade targets if weather conditions remain favorable.

"If proper market management and transportation facilities are ensured, farmers will receive fair prices," he continued.

With Ramadan-driven demand expected to peak in the coming weeks, watermelon cultivation is not only transforming the char landscapes into vast green fields but also emerging as the principal driver of the district's seasonal economy. 

If conditions remain stable, Patuakhali could witness an economic flow worth several hundred crores of taka this season, turning its red-green harvest into a symbol of prosperity.