Pajau Media
11th December, 2024
Residents of communities situated along the Tanai-Lido road in Kachin State report challenges in completing the rice harvest, despite the conclusion of the harvest season. This difficulty is attributed to soaring fuel prices and a lack of available young laborers.
A resident from the area reported that in the villages of Wara Zup, Shathu Zup, Dumbang, Naung Myay, and Nam Hpyat, situated along the Tanai - Lido Road, the rice harvest season has concluded, yet timely harvesting was not achieved. Furthermore, the rice yields this year is significantly lower than that of the previous year, resulting in insufficient food supplies until the next planting season.
“This year, the rice crops are not thriving. Additionally, fuel prices are rising, and the costs associated with machinery rentals are also increasing. The village is facing a shortage of young laborers. Compounding the issue, some individuals are attempting to cultivate their land without the aid of machinery, but the older generation is unable to perform as effectively as the youth. Many young people have been apprehended for military service, leading to their departure from the village, leaving only the elderly behind. It may become increasingly challenging to make a living in the coming year,” said a local.
The expenses associated with fuel for the rice harvester have surged significantly, and there is an urgent need to utilize the harvester. In the previous year, the cost of harvesting per acre using the harvester was approximately 80,000 kyats; however, this year, the cost has escalated to 250,000 kyats per acre. Residents have reported that despite the harvest season having concluded, the harvesting process remains unfinished as it is being conducted manually.
Comments