Bangladesh's Rajshahi farmers battle drought as climate change ravages crops
Farmers in Bangladesh's Rajshahi region are struggling as climate change worsens drought conditions and water shortages. Rising temperatures, erratic monsoons, and falling groundwater levels have cut crop yields sharply since the 1990s. The crisis is pushing many to sell assets or take loans just to survive. The Barind tract, covering areas like Tanore and Nachol, has seen temperatures climb by 0.5°C per decade. Irregular rains and extreme heat—especially above 35°C—have damaged Boro rice crops, reducing pollination and increasing pests. Rice yields in some areas have dropped by 36%, while wheat production has fallen by up to 60% during severe droughts.
Over 90% of farmers depend on tube wells for irrigation, but groundwater levels have plummeted, leaving many deep wells dry. The situation has forced changes in food habits as incomes shrink, with families consuming less due to rising food insecurity. During bad drought years, farmers can lose up to 40% of their earnings.
Researchers highlight that while wheat cultivation has expanded—Tanore grew 285 hectares more than its 2026 target—sustainable solutions are urgent. Techniques like alternate wetting and drying (AWD) have boosted Boro rice yields by 500 kg per hectare, but experts stress the need to reduce groundwater use and adopt better water management. The combined effects of groundwater depletion and repeated crop failures are deepening the crisis in Rajshahi. Farmers face mounting debts and shrinking resources, while unequal water access favours wealthier landowners. Without intervention, the region's food production and rural livelihoods will remain at risk.
