Hog Plum market booms, revitalising Jhalakathi's rural economy

After a sharp decline in guava prices in Bhimruli's renowned floating market in August amid political turmoil, Jhalakathi's rural economy is seeing renewed hope as the Hog Plum (Amra) season gets underway.

The market, now bustling with activity, draws buyers and sellers from dawn to noon. It is estimated that Amra worth over Tk30 crore will be sold in this season, providing a much-needed boost to the region's economy, according to the Department of Agricultural Marketing.

Bhimruli and at least 10 neighbouring villages, including Shadasakathi, Dumuria, and Atta of Sadar Upazila, have expanded their floating markets to cater to the growing demand for Amra. The market reaches its peak in Bangla month of Bhadra (mid-August to mid-September), as buyers flock to secure fresh produce.

Photo: TBS

According to the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), this season 15,470 farmers have cultivated Amra across 602 hectares of land, yielding an estimated 4,874 tonnes. Jhalakathi, known for producing top-quality Amra, leads in cultivation within the Barishal division. Many farmers turning to commercial Amra farming, the region is reaping the benefits.

Gopal Halder, a grower from Bhimruli, shared his optimism despite a challenging guava season. He told TBS that the Amra market is much more promising. He is selling various types of Amra at Tk1,000 to Tk1,200 per maund (40kg). This price could rise even higher in the coming weeks.

Local farmer Barun Kumar, who switched from guava farming to Amra five years ago, expressed relief. "Guava wasn't profitable this year due to fungal infections and poor yield, but Amra doesn't spoil as quickly. It can be stored for 20 to 25 days allowing us more time to sell at better prices," he explained.

Sahin, a labourer, pointed to the demand for workers during the Amra season. "Harvesting Amra from large orchards requires a lot of manpower," he said. "Though I'm from Pirojpur, I live in the Bhimruli-Atghar Kuriana area during the harvesting season, working as a day labourer to harvest fruit in the orchards."

Despite the optimism of farmers, wholesalers face challenges. Mamun, a Bhimruli wholesaler, pointed out that while Amra growers are benefiting, transportation costs are eating into profits. "Even though Amra is selling at Tk1,400 to Tk1,500 per maund, high transportation costs make it difficult to make profits," he said.

Photo: TBS

Abul Kalam, another local farmer, told TBS that the cost of cultivating Amra is relatively low compared to other crops. "Once the trees have begun bearing fruits, they can yield well for five to seven years with minimal maintenance. After the opening of the Padma Bridge, it has become much easier to transport Amra from the southern region to different parts of the country," he said.

Kalam also noted that the demand for Amra is high across the country, particularly in the southern region.

Monirul Islam, Deputy Director of Jhalakathi's DAE, confirmed the positive impact of Amra farming on the local economy. "More farmers are shifting towards Amra cultivation, and it's proving to be a profitable venture that supports the district's floating markets," he said.