Litchi trading reaches peak in Rajshahi region

RAJSHAHI, June 04 (BSS): Trading and marketing of litchi has reached peak everywhere in the region engaging hundreds of labourers both male and female in harvesting, processing and transportation of the delicious seasonal fruit.

Harvest has been continuing in full swing with plenty of supply, huge demand and better prices in the local markets making both the litchi growers and traders happier this season.

Seasonal traders set up makeshift shops at different points in the city especially Shaheb Bazar, Bindurmore, Laxmipur Bazar, Sheroil Bus Terminal, Railway station and Court Bazaar with the eye-catching fruit.

Trader Faridul Islam in the New Market gate area said that many farmers are harvesting litchi with the hope of getting good earnings.

He, however, said the market price of the mouth-watering fruit is comparatively high this season. A comfortable situation everywhere in the society is very important to make any business profitable, Islam added.

Dr Shafiqul Islam, Principal Scientific Officer of Fruit Research Station, said that litchi grew well in Rajshahi and Dinajpur districts in the country's northwest region but the fruit of Ishwardi is very delicious and famous across the country.

In Rajshahi, there are around 400 hectares of litchi orchards with the creation of new ones. He said that commercial farming of some of the fruits especially mango and litchi is gradually being enhanced in the region, including its vast Barind tract.Upazila Agriculture Officer Rawshan Jamil said that the yield of litchi has been affected to some extent due to the scorching heat. Presently, every 100 pieces of local variety litchi are being sold at Taka 250 to 300.

Hundreds of labourers are now engaged in harvesting, segregation and transportation to earn lucrative daily wages.