-BSS Collage photo

KISHOREGANJ, May 5, 2026 (BSS) - After days of relentless rain and upstream flooding, a spell of sunshine has finally returned to the haor regions of Kishoreganj, offering a much-needed relief to local farmers struggling to salvage their crops.

Since Tuesday morning, clear skies have allowed farmers across affected areas—particularly in Itna upazila—to resume urgent recovery efforts. The usually quiet haor landscapes are once again bustling with activity. Paddy is being dried along roadsides while others thresh and clean rice in open spaces.

Men, women, and even children have joined in the effort to rescue whatever remains of the submerged harvest. “Since the sun came out, everyone is working nonstop to dry the paddy stored in fields and along roads,” said local farmer Rahim Mia from Mithamoin Zero Point. “If we get a few more days of sunshine, we may be able to save some of the crops.”

Another farmer, Khayer Kha from Joysiddhi Khala, echoed the concern: “Without this sunshine, everything would have been lost. Many have already suffered major losses. Now we’re just trying to save what we can.”

Despite the improved weather, uncertainty persists. Water levels in nearby rivers have continued to rise over the past 24 hours, keeping fears of further flooding alive. Large portions of low-lying land remain underwater, especially in Itna and Ashtagram upazila, the two hardest-hit areas.

Harvesting has also become more difficult due to waterlogged fields, making it impossible to use mechanical harvesters. As a result, demand for manual labor has surged, pushing wages higher. “We are working in waist-deep water, dealing with cold and leeches,” said Sabur Ali, a farm worker. “Because of the hardship, we are asking for slightly higher wages.”

According to the Nikli Meteorological Office, 4 millimeters of rainfall were recorded in the last 24 hours, and more rain is expected later today—raising further concerns among farmers.

Md. Sajjad Hossain, Executive Engineer of the Water Development Board in Kishoreganj, said authorities are maintaining round-the-clock vigilance and have advised both farmers and local administrations to stay alert.

Dr. Sadiqur Rahman, Deputy Director of the District Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), reported that approximately 12,500 hectares of land have been submerged, affecting around 49,000 farmers. Efforts are currently underway to compile a comprehensive list of those impacted.