It is peak Aman harvesting season in the rural communities along Cox’s Bazar’s Marine Drive.
The golden paddy fields and stacks of straw have brought back the familiar rhythm of agricultural life, creating a vibrant picture of rural Bangladesh.
The photo shows a local farmer separating straw from freshly harvested paddy — a process that continues tirelessly from morning till dusk under the sun.
Farmers say favorable weather this year has resulted in a strong Aman yield.
With harvesting in full swing, they are rushing to transport the paddy home from the fields.
The leftover straw also adds value — it is used as cattle feed, roofing material, and even as fuel, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
Despite expressing satisfaction with the higher yield, farmers mentioned rising costs and a labor shortage as key challenges this season.
Even so, the excellent harvest has brought relief and optimism to the farming communities.
The harvesting hustle along the Marine Drive villages is not just a boost to farmers’ livelihoods — it is also breathing new life into the local economy.
As newly harvested rice begins to enter the market, trading activity is gradually picking up pace.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Hussain Shetu
