Local farmers staged a protest by blocking a national highway in Hatibandha upazila of Lalmonirhat on Tuesday morning (October 27), demanding an adequate supply of fertilizer. During the demonstration, they accused the local fertilizer dealer of selling supplies on the black market and practicing nepotism in distribution.
The blockade was set up in the Parulia Bazar area of Patikapara union, halting vehicular movement on the Lalmonirhat-Patgram-Burimari national highway. Traffic resumed after the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) rushed to the scene and assured the protesters that immediate arrangements would be made to supply fertilizer.
Protesting farmers alleged that ordinary cultivators were being deprived of necessary fertilizers because the designated dealer diverted supplies to the black market and favored relatives and associates.
Farmers stated they were facing extreme difficulties as they could not secure fertilizer during a crucial agricultural season. Many reported failing repeatedly to obtain essential supplies despite making numerous attempts. Growing frustrated after days of unsuccessful visits to dealers, they felt compelled to take to the highway.
"Our lands are currently under paddy cultivation, and now it is time to plant crops like potatoes and maize," said one farmer participating in the protest. "There is a widespread crisis due to the shortage of fertilizer. When we go to the dealer, they just tell us that fertilizer will arrive soon and ask us to be patient, but it never comes."
The farmers demanded an end to irregularities in fertilizer distribution and called for fair-priced supplies to reach genuine cultivators. They also urged authorities to investigate the allegations of black-market trading and take legal action against those responsible.
Hatibandha Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Dip Jon Mitra stated that the protesting farmers were assured there is no actual shortage of fertilizer and that genuine farmers would receive their quotas.
