A number of farmers in Baghlan Province say that despite an increase in watermelon and melon production this year, falling prices and the lack of suitable markets have created serious challenges for their income.
Hamid, a farmer from Baghlan-e-Markazi District, said this year’s harvest has increased compared to last year, but the prices of melons and watermelons have dropped significantly. According to him, when production rises but there is no proper market for selling the produce, farmers are the ones who suffer the losses.
He also criticized the rising costs of agricultural production, saying that prices for fertilizer, seeds, and transportation have increased. He added that unless authorities take steps to establish sales markets and expand exports, increased production will not bring financial benefits to farmers.
Meanwhile, Rasoul, a farmer from Doshi District, identified water shortages as one of the main challenges facing the agricultural sector. He said many areas lack sufficient water for irrigation and that establishing cold storage facilities and product storage centers could help farmers sell their produce more effectively.
The farmer emphasized that increased production will only lead to improved incomes for farmers if domestic and international markets are expanded, storage facilities are made available, and transportation and export networks are strengthened.
Farmers in Baghlan say addressing issues such as access to water, establishing sales markets, expanding exports, and reducing production costs will play an important role in improving their livelihoods. They have called on the Taliban authorities to support farmers by creating marketing opportunities, establishing cold storage facilities, and facilitating exports to prevent further financial losses.
Writer:Salima Aryaei
